Vaughan steps down as one-day captain
Vaughan will confine himself to Test duties
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Monday, 18, Jun 2007 11:27
Michael Vaughan has announced his resignation as captain of England's one-day side, while insisting he still has a part to play in the limited-overs game.
Vaughan has guided England through 86 one-day internationals but neither he or the team have been able to replicate their solid Test form under his leadership.
While the 32-year-old averages 43 in Test matches, the figure drops to 27 as he struggles to adjust to the demands of the shortened version.
"Since our disappointing performances in the World Cup, I have been giving careful consideration as to what is the best way forward for the England one-day team and my own role within the side," a statement from the player read.
"Our priority is to build a one-day squad able to compete strongly at the next World Cup and I firmly believe that the interests of the team will be best served if I step down.
"I will continue to play one-day cricket for Yorkshire and it is not my intention to retire from one-day international cricket as a player."
With his side currently looking to decorate their series win over the West Indies with another victory at Chester-le-Street, Vaughan was quick to stress that he was determined to stay on in his role as Test captain.
"I am committed to continuing as England's Test captain for as long as I can be successful in the role," he continued.
"I enjoy the job and I also believe that I will be able to form a strong working relationship with whoever is appointed to the one-day captaincy."
Paul Collingwood, who scored a timely century on his home ground of Durham today, is being touted as Vaughan's likeliest successor with Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Strauss seen as long-shot outsiders for the job.