LANCASHIRE coach Mike Watkinson says he fully understands Warren Hegg's decision to step down as captain.

Hegg, the club's longest-serving player following almost two decades' service at Old Trafford, announced his decision on Tuesday.

Watkinson, who was Hegg's captain when he skippered Lancashire from 1994 to 1997, explained that the veteran wicketkeeper was looking to concentrate solely on playing.

"Warren Hegg has done a tremendous job for the last three seasons, but the timing of his decision is probably right," Watkinson said.

"I was captain for four seasons, and it's not an easy job.

"Warren wants to free himself up to have a more relaxing end to his career. With Mark Chilton and Stuart Law, we have what should be a good partnership to take us forward."

Watkinson believes that Chilton, in his new role as captain, will help Lancashire recover from last season's County Championship relegation.

"We didn't want to let the situation drift once Warren had made his decision. The players will report back for pre-season training in December, and we wanted to make a quick appointment to give the new captain time to grow into the role before then.

"Mark is a player who likes to lead by example, and Stuart has plenty of tactical knowledge to offer."