Nicky Boje will not go to India © Getty Images Enlarge

Nicky Boje, South Africa's vice-captain, has pulled out of their forthcoming two-Test tour of India, which starts next week.

Boje, 31, had wanted assurances that he would not be detained by the police over their match-fixing investigations. His lawyer, Tony Irish, who is also chief executive of the South African Cricketers' Association, told Reuters: "We got confirmation today that there was going to be no guarantee or assurance given and Nicky has made his decision." KK Paul, Delhi's police commissioner, had met with a South African diplomat about the situation.

Gerald de Kock, the media manager for the South Africa team, said in a statement: "Paul stated that Boje would be questioned in such a way as not to interfere with the tour, but has refused to put in writing that Boje will not be arrested."

Boje's decision follows the news earlier today that the Delhi police still want to question him over his alleged involvement in the match-fixing controversy which was uncovered during South Africa's last tour there in 1999-2000.

"It's sad but it was on the cards all the way along," Irish concluded. "They have the right to investigate but he has co-operated fully."

Boje will be replaced by Charl Langeveldt in the squad, while Boeta Dippenaar will be the new vice-captain.