Dane Vilas has been appointed as Lancashire’s new captain, after Liam Livingstone stepped down from the role.

The South African international was named stand-in captain for the latter part of the 2018 season, after Livingstone broke his left thumb, with the wicketkeeper now named as permanent successor to the 25-year-old.

Vilas joined the club in 2017, and was Lancashire’s top run scorer in this year’s Specsavers County Championship with 791 runs at an average of nearly 38.

On taking on the job full-time, he said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have been offered the opportunity to become Lancashire captain and I feel honoured and humbled to be in a position to lead the club forward in the coming years.

“Lancashire has a proud and distinguished history and it’s a privilege for me to be part of writing the next chapter in the Club’s history.

“Even though I’ve only been part of the side for the last two years, I understand the importance of what the red rose means to supporters and the whole squad is determined to win back our position in Division One of the County Championship and to challenge for both white ball competitions next year.”

Livingstone stepped down after just one season in the role, keen to focus on his personal form in all formats.

And Vilas believes that could be a positive move for Livingstone who averaged 24 in red ball cricket last year.

He added: “Liam did a good job last season in what was a challenging year for the club, and I think giving him the freedom to concentrate on his own performances will get the best out of him as a batsman and that will only be good for the team.”

Head coach Glenn Chapple believes Vilas' experience and respect within the dressing room made him the ideal candidate.

“I’m delighted that Dane has accepted our offer to be club captain and I believe he will do an excellent job," he said.

“He led the team very well in Liam’s absence through injury last season and I’m confident he is the right man to be at the forefront of this group of players.

“Dane is a vastly experienced cricketer who has the complete respect of the dressing room. Since arriving at the club two years ago, he’s become one of the leaders of the side and sets an outstanding example to his team mates with his attitude both on and off the field.

“Having spoken to Dane this week, I know how proud he is to represent the red rose and to now take over as captain. I’m looking forward to working closely with him.”