Coventry born Ian Bell is the new captain of Warwickshire County Cricket Club.
Varun Chopra has stood down in order to concentrate on his batting and Bell takes over with immediate effect.
Chopra said to Edgbaston.com: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as captain of the Bears and regard our NatWest T20 Blast success in 2014 as one of the best moments of my career.
“Whilst it has been a difficult decision to make, I feel that focusing on my batting is in the best interests of the team and I’m looking forward to fully supporting Ian, scoring as many runs as possible and hopefully contributing to more success in 2016 and beyond.
“I would like to thank the players, coaches and Members for their support throughout my tenure.”
Ian Bell said: The Club and Edgbaston have been a huge part of my life since an early age and, in the past, I have made no secret of my desire to captain the Bears,” Ian said. “I am very proud to now be given the opportunity to lead this exciting squad and to challenge for titles in all forms of the game. We have a strong programme of pre-season fixtures ahead and we will all be working very hard to ensure that we’re in the best possible shape for the first game of the County Championship away to Hampshire on 10 April.”