Derbyshire all-rounder David Lloyd has stepped down from his position as club captain ahead of the 2025 season. Lloyd, who joined Derbyshire from Glamorgan in 2023, captained the team in the County Championship last year. Despite his efforts, Derbyshire finished at the bottom of Division Two and received the wooden spoon.
In his first full season with the club, the 32-year-old Lloyd averaged 23.47 with the bat and 31.00 with the ball in the Championship. Seeking to improve his personal performance, he has decided to step down from the captaincy.
Mickey Arthur, Derbyshire’s head of cricket, commented, “David dedicated himself to the captaincy and was a fantastic leader. However, the mental strain of leading the team, combined with the pressure to regain his form and manage family life, made it beneficial for everyone involved to relieve him of this responsibility.”
Arthur added, “David was honest with me about the situation. He is committed to contributing to the team, and his experience and leadership will remain invaluable both on and off the field. I am eager to see him perform at his best this summer.”
Derbyshire underwent a significant restructuring before the 2024 season, with Lloyd taking over the captaincy following Leus du Plooy’s departure, and several new players joining the squad. However, the team’s progress was limited. After being winless in 2023, they managed only one victory alongside six defeats, ending at the bottom of the division.
That single victory did end Derbyshire’s five-year winless run in Championship cricket at their home ground in Derby.
Lloyd stated, “This was not an easy decision for me. I have consulted with close friends, family, and teammates throughout this winter, and I believe this decision will allow me to concentrate on my game.”
He continued, “It has been an honor to captain Derbyshire. I am now looking forward to playing with less pressure, continuing to learn from Mickey and our coaching team, and demonstrating my capabilities to our members and supporters.”
Lloyd concluded, “Our aim is to become competitive again across all formats. I am excited to play my part and support our new club captain in any way possible.”
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