Keaton Jennings: Lancashire captain stands down after poor start

Lancashire batter Keaton Jennings has stood down as captain of the side in the County Championship.

His announcement came shortly after the club put out a statement apologising to fans for their poor start to the season, which sees them sit bottom of Division Two after the opening five matches of the campaign.

The Red Rose county were relegated last season and, after four draws to begin the year, they lost this week to Northamptonshire at the County Ground.

Australian batter Marcus Harris, 33, has taken over as interim captain.

Former England player Jennings, who will continue to lead the side in the T20 Blast, had led Lancashire across all formats since 2023 and signed a new five-year deal in December last year.

“This has not been an easy decision, however after reflection and conversations with the management, I believe the team will benefit from a change of captaincy,” the 32-year-old told the club website, external.

“My passion and commitment to serving Lancashire has not and will never change. Our current position in the table is not reflective of our commitment as a team and club to winning.”

Performance director Mark Chilton said Jennings had given “total commitment” to the role.

He added that they hoped veteran former England bowler James Anderson, 43, who has not played this year because of a calf injury, could return to add “vast experience and leadership into the side”.