David Lloyd, the Derbyshire all-rounder, has relinquished his role as club captain before the upcoming 2025 season. After joining from Glamorgan in 2023, Lloyd captained the County Championship team last year. However, Derbyshire finished at the bottom of Division Two.
In his first season with the club, the 32-year-old Lloyd averaged 23.47 with the bat and 31.00 with the ball in Championship matches. He decided to step down from the captaincy to concentrate on improving his individual performance.
Mickey Arthur, Derbyshire’s head of cricket, commented, “David dedicated himself to the captaincy and was an excellent leader. However, the pressure of leadership, combined with the desire to regain top form and family commitments, suggests that it is beneficial for everyone to ease his burden.”
Arthur added, “David was honest with me, and he is committed to contributing to the team. His experience and leadership will remain invaluable both on and off the field. I anticipate his best performance this summer.”
Derbyshire underwent significant changes before the 2024 season, including Lloyd’s appointment as captain following Leus du Plooy’s departure and the arrival of several new players. Despite these changes, progress was limited. After being winless in 2023, they achieved only one victory alongside six defeats, ending last in the division.
That single victory did mark the end of a five-year winless streak in Championship cricket at their home ground in Derby.
Lloyd stated, “This was not an easy decision, but after discussing it with friends, family, and teammates over the winter, I believe this is the right step to allow me to refocus on my personal game.”
“It has been an honor to captain Derbyshire. I am now looking forward to playing with less pressure, continuing to learn from Mickey and the coaching team, and demonstrating my capabilities to our members and supporters.”
“We aim to be competitive across all formats, and I am eager to contribute and support our new club captain in any way possible.”
