David Byas retires a happy man. This season, under his leadership, Yorkshire won the County Championship for the first time since 1968. Byas, 38, made his debut for Yorkshire in 1986, and scored 14,398 first-class runs at 35.38. He made 1000 runs five times. A farmer in the winter, he now leaves behind the bleatings of ex-Yorkshire players to return to the peace of his cows and sheep. Best moment
August 27, 2001 – when we won the Championship. I had my doubts that it would ever come, especially in the last two years when we got as close as we did but still the trophies eluded us. But when it did it was very, very pleasing, and a big relief to be honest. I know some people think that winning the Championship now isn't the same as it was in the year dot or whatever, but I couldn't give two hoots about that. It was great.

Worst moment
Every semi-final we've lost. However horrible being a runner-up is I would still rather have lost in the final than be knocked out in the semi-final. It meant that we got labelled as nearly men.

What will you miss most?

The players. When you live in each other's pockets for six-and-a-half, seven months of the year, you play with them, socialise with them, drink with them, share your dreams with them – you get to know each other so, so well. I will also miss all aspects of being captain – even the media grillings.

Who was your biggest influence?

My family. My wife and kids who have supported me, and my dad and brother who've covered for me at the farm when I've been playing.

What has changed most in cricket during your career?
The principles of the game are much the same. Obviously the commercial side has improved which should be beneficial, as long as it is handled properly. If it isn't, well, as we know money is the root of all evil. I think things will get worse on the transfer market as cricket moves increasingly towards football.

What one moment made you decide to retire?

The time was ripe. I wanted to finish on top - when I was still taking my catches at slip - and to be remembered in that way, if I am remembered at all. I didn't want to be seen as milking the last few drops out of my career.

What is your biggest regret?

I never played for my country which I would dearly love to have done, but that isn't a regret as I never got the chance. I've seen a lot of the world, met a lot of people - I wouldn't change a thing.

What do you plan to do now?

I'm going to farm. As one door shuts another opens and I'm very lucky that I've got this to fall back on. It's the start of my life really, I'm really looking forward to it.

How good a player do you think you were?
That's for you to decide.

Would you do it all again?
Yes, I would love to. I've been very lucky.

David Byas was talking to Tanya Aldred.

More Time to Go
Alan Wells

Ian Austin

© Wisden CricInfo Ltd