Daryl Mitchell has backed new Worcestershire CCC captain Joe Leach "to do a fantastic job" and given the all-rounder his full support.
Opener Mitchell says he is looking forward to what will be his first campaign without the responsibilities of being skipper since the end of 2010 when he replaced Vikram Solanki.
He has signed a new four year contract at New Road this winter until the end of the 2020 season and last week was elected the new chairman of the Professional Cricketers' Association.
Now he is aiming to give all the help possible to his close friend Leach as he gets to grips with leading the side.
Mitchell said: "It was difficult for me in October but as soon as I made the decision to sign a new contract, for me that was a line under everything and 'move on.'
"I'm looking forward to the challenges of the summer as I have done every summer for the last 14 years.
"I'll be looking to score as many runs as I can and do the best I can for the team and try and win a few games for Worcestershire.
"I get on very well with Joe – and my wife and his fiance are good friends as well.
"If there was someone to take over, he is definitely the right man to take over and I'm sure he will do a fantastic job.
"I will support him in every way I possibly can. I am looking forward to getting out there and helping Joe where I can and to enjoy it."
Mitchell said Director of Cricket Steve Rhodes had also been supportive of him taking on his new key role with the PCA as successor to Mark Wallace.
He said: "Steve and Tom Scott, the chief executive, have both been very supportive.
"I think Bumpy was a PCA rep in his days as a player and is full of admiration for the PCA and knows what a vital role they play."
