Australian One Day International all-rounder James Hopes has been appointed captain of the Queensland Bulls for the 2010-11 season after Chris Simpson stood down from the role on Monday.

Simpson informed Queensland Cricket Chairman Damien Mullins SC and Chief Executive Officer Graham Dixon of his decision and stands down after two seasons in the role.

Hopes will take over the captaincy with his opening game in charge on October 6 at the Gabba, with the Bulls' inaugural split format National One Day Cup match against Tasmania.

Simpson, 28, had two years at the helm after he was appointed to take over from Jimmy Maher as skipper in 2008 and led the Bulls to victory in the 2008-09 Ford Ranger Cup and also the final of the Weet-Bix Sheffield Shield for the past two seasons.