The main aim of new Yorkshire captain Anthony McGrath is to lead his team straight back into the top flight of the County Championship.

The 27-year-old Bradford-born batsman was yesterday unveiled as the man to take over the reins from Darren Lehmann and McGrath said he was sure success could be achieved.

"It is a difficult challenge but I am looking forward to it and I cannot wait for the season to get under way," he said.

"We have got a squad that is not much different from that which clinched the Champion-ship in 2001 and lifted the Cheltenham & Gloucester Trophy last year and I am certain we can go on bringing silverware to the club.

"I am one of the youngest captains Yorkshire have had for some time and hopefully I will do well enough to stay in the job for the next few years. There are plenty of very experienced players around me and I know I will be able to rely on them for help and advice.

"At times I will have England players in my side but leading them is not a worry to me because I know that they all love playing for Yorkshire."

McGrath has earned something of a reputation for being a dressing room prankster but asked if all that would have to change now he replied with a deadpan face: "I haven't the slightest idea what you are talking about."

Yorkshire also confirmed the appointment of Kevin Sharp as batting coach and said that former players Phil Sharpe, Neil Hartley and Jim Love had agreed to serve as an advisory group. They would all see quite a bit of cricket and would report to director of cricket Geoff Cope but they would not be involved in the running of the side.