Worcestershire opener Daryl Mitchell's six season spell as captain as come to an end.
The 32-year-old, who replaced Vikram Solanki towards the end of the 2010 campaign, has been relieved of his duties.
Badsey-born Mitchell led Worcestershire to promotion at the end of the 2010 season and repeated the feat in 2014 in addition to reaching the quarter-finals of the NatWest T20 Blast on three occasions.
Worcestershire Director of Cricket Steve Rhodes confirmed the change of captaincy and said: "I have enjoyed working with Mitch for six years in the captain-coach relationship.
"We have gone through lots of ups and downs but I felt the team going forward needed a fresh start and input from a different source regarding the captaincy.
"I hope Daryl can continue to play a key role as one of our most accomplished and experienced batsmen."
Mitchell, a lifelong Worcestershire supporter, passed 10,000 first class runs in his career at an average of nearly 40 during the penultimate home game of the campaign against Northamptonshire.
He is currently in his benefit year with the County.
Mitchell said: "Although I disagree with Bumpy’s decision, I do fully respect it and know it has been made with the very best intentions for Worcestershire CCC moving forward.
"I would like to thank Bumpy for giving me the opportunity to fulfil a childhood dream of becoming captain of our great club.
"I would also like to thank all the players for the efforts they’ve put in and the support they’ve given me during my tenure as Captain. It has been an honour to lead each and every one of them."
