“I think the role now has got two parts to it. In the short-term, we need someone who can manage the First XI which is, in Championship cricket, a pretty senior group. I think it’s important that we keep that continuity within the group and protect the environment that we’ve created, one that has been so successful for us.

“We had 16 applicants for the job with some extremely good candidates in among that list. But at the end of the day, for what I believe we need, Galey was the obvious choice. He is highly qualified in the way that he has led the team as Captain over the past seven years and has expertise that we didn’t want to lose at the Club.

“We have gone through a rigorous process and looked at all the options that were available to us.

“The long-term vision is to ensure that we have someone who can oversee the natural transition that will occur as the senior players retire and the younger players take over in their places. It’s important that we have that continuity and I think that in Galey we’re ensuring that will be the case.

“It also gives him time to build up his coaching experience and knowledge alongside the other excellent coaches we have here at the Club.”

Gale made his First-Class debut for Yorkshire against Somerset at Scarborough in 2004 and has since gone onto become one of most successful captains in the Club’s history. In the 98 games that he captained the White Rose in the County Championship between 2010-16, Gale led the Club to 40 victories, 46 draws and just 12 defeats.

Speaking about his appointment, Gale said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be appointed the First XI Coach of this great Club.

“I didn’t expect the opportunity to come as early as it has, but it is one that is too good to turn down.

“In taking up the role, I have ended a memorable playing career at Headingley, however, the challenge ahead is one that truly excites me.

“As First XI Coach, I aim to continue the good work that has been done over the past five years with the excellent support staff that we have here.

“I have always believed in the group of players here at the Club and in turn I have earned their respect. I will demand a lot from them to ensure that we maintain the high standards that we have come to expect at Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

“Ultimately, I cannot wait to roll my sleeves up and get stuck in.”