Warne to lead Bushrangers

Australia's leg-spinning great, Shane Warne was today named as captain of the Victorian Bushrangers Pura and ING Cup sides for season 2002/03. Matthew Elliott, currently finishing the English County season with Yorkshire, has been named as vice-captain. The Victorian Cricket Association (VCA) Board made the appointment of Warne and Elliott at the September Board meeting on Monday night.

In announcing the appointment, the Chief Executive Officer of the VCA, Mr Ken Jacobs advised the Board had received a report and recommendation from the state selection committee, which includes David Hookes. "After due consideration, the Board have decided upon the leadership team of Shane Warne and Matthew Elliott to lead the Victorian Bushrangers into the coming season," Jacobs said.

Speaking from Kenya, where he is touring with the Australian one-day side, Warne was thrilled with the decision. " It's a great honour to captain your home state and I'm extremely proud to have been selected to do so. Even though I may only actually lead the side onto the field in a limited number of games this season, I am hopeful of playing more games for the Bushrangers in the years to come. I view this as a long-term decision for the future".

Warne said the squad had completed a tough pre-season and was in great shape to improve their results in 2002/03. "There's been a great feeling throughout our squad this winter under the guidance of David Hookes and Greg Shipperd. I'm looking forward to working closely with David, Greg and Matty Elliott, to ensure the Bushrangers have the best chance of success in the Pura and ING Cup competitions on a consistent basis".

Today's announcement sees Warne now approaching his second stint as captain of the Bushrangers, after previously holding the position for three seasons between 1996-99. "I really enjoyed the captaincy last time and with the benefit of that experience and also leading Australia at various times since, I am confident I'm well-placed to lead the Bushrangers into a new era of success".

Elliott, who replaced Paul Reiffel as captain midway through last season, was supportive of the decision. "All I want is for the Bushrangers to be successful. I enjoyed the captaincy last season and am keen to remain as a leader within the team in total support to Shane. We have a strong core group of senior players now in Darren Berry, Brad Hodge and Ian Harvey and I think we have an exciting season ahead of us".