Ralph is named county captain

The 31-year-old has been named as the replacement for Tim Hancock who resigned his position after just three matches in charge.

Ralph made is county debut in 1998 and chairman Bryan Foulkes said: "We are pleased to announced that James is the new captain.

"He has been in the set-up for nine years and everyone knows what he can do.

"He has given us assurances that he is honoured and privileged to do the job and we look forward to the Championship season."

Ralph, who had a brief spell at Worcestershire, has played for Ludlow and Bridgnorth before moving to Shifnal before the start of the 2006 campaign.

Widely regarded as one of the most naturally gifted and talented batsman in the county, Ralph has scored more than 2,000 runs in 46 championship games, including five centuries and 12 fifties.

He has made one century and five fifties in his 43 games in the one-day format.

Ironically, Ralph will lead the county for the first time on his former hunting grounds when Shropshire take on Berkshire at Bridgnorth in the Minor Counties Championship starting on Sunday.

County officials remain hopeful of strengthening the side following the departure of Hancock, but look likely to have to do without all-rounders Duncan Catterall and Asif Sultan next weekend due to unavailability.

By James Garrison