Sporting Digest: Cricket

Neil Smith is to emulate his father, MJK, by captaining Warwickshire next season. The 31-year-old all-rounder's appointment as successor to Brian Lara was confirmed by the general committee last night.

Matthew Fleming will replace Steve Marsh as Kent's captain next season. The 33-year-old all-rounder takes over from the wicketkeeper who lead the county for three years.

SHEFFIELD SHIELD (Canberra; first day of four): Queensland 272 for 3 (J P Maher 88, S G Law 77 no) v New South Wales.