It could hardly have gone more smoothly for the new skipper, whose side are top of the Premier Division table with 19 points out of a possible 20 after wins over Triangle and Sowerby Bridge.
Fairbairn admits "there was a short list of zero" for the captaincy following the decision to quit of league side captain Cotton, who has twice brought the title trophy to Bradshaw.
The ex-Old Crossleyans batsman was roped into the task after turning up to a club meeting in November but believes the current Bradshaw side is not a difficult one to lead.
"I'm enjoying it," said Fairbairn. "The good thing is that I have the support of experienced players like Wayne and Simon Collins and it is a bit of a joint operation during games.
"We also have a good set of lads at Bradshaw and it makes life easier when there are no problems with players."
Bradshaw's togetherness was evident in 2006, when they were surprise champions, and they produced another bold showing to finish third last summer after the spur of being written off as title contenders in a poll of captains entering the finishing straight.
Fairbairn concedes that Bradshaw haven't as much fire power as several other top section sides but points out that that didn't stop them turning over fancied Bridge six days ago.
"We don't regard ourselves as a top four side in terms of playing strength but if we all pull together we know we can compete well in every game."
Fairbairn has made a couple of early adjustments to the batting order with young James Marris at the top of the order and Abdul Rauf promoted to four. Two totals of more than 200 batting first on slow early-season wickets has pleased the captain, who knows he can probably bank on 500-plus runs from Cotton and Collins during the season.
Left arm off spinner Collins should also make an impact with the ball while Fairbairn believes the return of Steve Shannon from Elland will foster some healthy sibling rivalry with younger brother Chris.
The pair are opening the attack and Fairbairn said: "Before Steve left he was the top dog but Chris has taken over the mantle.
"Chris possibly has the edge on pace but Steve is coming back and they both want to bowl from the top end."
Bradshaw will have high hopes of retaining their 100 per cent record this season through two home tests this weekend, against Northowram HT in the Premier tomorrow and bottom section side Shelf in the Parish Cup on Sunday.
Fairbairn, who made 60 last weekend, had a short spell in the juniors at Northowram playing alongside current Rams skipper Andrew Gardner.
"Northowram are a bit like us. They probably also see themselves as a mid-table side but if things come off they can beat anyone," said Fairbairn.
"We've never played Shelf before but Blackley from a lower division gave us a spanking in the cup last year so we will not underestimate them."