Middlesex have named Stephen Eskinazi as their captain for this summer's Bob Willis Trophy, after confirming that Peter Handscomb, the Australia batsman who was set to lead them this summer, will defer his two-year contract until 2021-22.

Eskinazi, 26, will take charge of Middlesex's red-ball team in the competition that has replaced the County Championship this summer due to the impact of Covid-19. England seamer Toby Roland-Jones has been appointed as his vice-captain.

ALSO READ: Kent opener Dickson signs for Durham

"Steve was the obvious choice for me as the captain of our squad in Pete Handscomb's absence," Middlesex coach, Stuart Law, said. "Last year when Steve stood in for us, the team played really well and with a smile on their face and had immediate success. Good signs for sure and I look forward to working with him again this season."

Handscomb had been signed as the club's overseas player and captain for the Championship and Royal London Cup, but his deal was put "on hold" after the global shutdown cause by Covid-19. The Bob Willis Trophy, named after the former England captain who died last year, will begin on August 1, while the 50-over competition has been dropped this summer.

Dawid Malan captained Middlesex during the 2019 season but stepped down from the role after they finished eighth in Division Two, before leaving for Yorkshire over the winter.