Yorkshire in shock after Adams opts to remain with Sussex

Yorkshire last night admitted they were "shell-shocked" by Chris Adams' decision to remain with Sussex. Adams, 36, agreed to join Yorkshire as captain and director of pro-cricket on a four-year contract earlier this month. But he has since decided the role would be "too much" and will remain at Sussex as a player.

A statement from Yorkshire read: "Having visited the club on two occasions and discussed his new role, Chris feels that the challenge facing him is too much, too soon. He has made the decision to remain at Sussex as a player where he will honour his contract and will look to move into a management role when the time is right."

The Yorkshire chief executive, Stewart Regan, added: "The club are shell-shocked by Chris's decision to remain with Sussex. Having spent time with him last night when he presented his thoughts on the future to the Yorkshire playing squad it came as a great surprise this afternoon to hear of his change of heart.

"I appreciate his honesty in advising us of his decision before moving to the club. The board will be reviewing the options tomorrow morning but remain committed to the structure announced on 1 November."

Sussex were delighted by Adams' decision. Their chief executive, Gus Mackay, said: "When Chris informed us that he would not be taking up Yorkshire's offer we were thrilled at the news."