All-rounder Tom Abell has stepped down as Somerset captain after seven seasons leading the Taunton side.
The 29-year-old was appointed captain ahead of the 2017 campaign leading Somerset to runners up spot in the County Championship in 2018 and 2019.
Abell lifted the One-Day Cup in 2019 beating Hampshire in the final.
“I didn’t have a great season in 2023. It can be tough to lead when you’re not content with your own performance,” Abell told the club’s website.
“This will give me the opportunity to get back to where I need to be, which is contributing to Somerset winning games of cricket.”
Abell has a first-class average of 33.97 with the bat and 31.62 with the ball.
In 2023, he averaged 31.10 in the County Championship with one century and two fifties but claimed only four wickets in 13 matches.
He made his debut in 2014, scoring 95 and 0 on debut against Warwickshire in the Championship.
‘I’m stepping down with a heavy heart’
“As a Somerset boy it’s been a massive privilege to captain the club and the experience has been incredible,” Abell continued.
“I’m stepping down with a heavy heart. It’s not been an easy decision, but I’ve thought about it a lot and I believe that it is in the best interests of the team and the club.
“Sometimes change can be a good thing and I think that now is the right time. My decision is entirely based on what I feel is best for us moving forward.”
Somerset’s director of cricket, Andy Hurry, said Abell still had a “huge role to play in the future of the club”.
Hurry also said the club are beginning the process of identifying who should replace Abell as captain.
“Tom feels the time is right for someone else to take on the mantle,” Hurry said.
“Tom has captained Somerset County Cricket Club with distinction over the last seven seasons.
“Everyone connected with Somerset will agree that he has been an absolute credit to the club both on and off the field.
“His conduct, commitment, leadership and dedication have been exemplary during his time in the role, and he has written himself into the history of the club forever.”
