Vaughan - I was lucky (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Vaughan - I was lucky

6:26pm Sunday 14th September 2008

• Print
• Email
• Share

Former England captain Michael Vaughan admits he was "lucky" to have been awarded a central contract for the next year.

There had been doubts the 33-year-old would be among the players given new 12-month deals due to his poor form this season, but he now intends to fight for his place as a batsman despite runs being in short supply lately.

Vaughan told BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek programme: "The central contract is a huge bonus, if I am honest I think I am lucky. I haven't got the runs properly to justify that position."

He added: "I think it has shown a hell of a lot of faith.

"But over the last year and a half I have had some excellent innings. I have had some good times with the bat not too long ago.

"I think they have just repaid the fact that if I get back into form I think I can still play a huge part in the England cricket team."

Vaughan is hoping for some big scores in Yorkshire's final two matches of the season to win a place in squad to tour India this winter.

Beyond that, he would also relish the chance to play in an another Ashes series next summer - but accepts time is running out for him to win back a place.

Vaughan memorably led England to victory on Australia's last visit in 2005 but missed the 2006-07 series Down Under due to injury.

He said: "I need some runs. That's not something I am desperate to do, I'm just going to try to let it happen. Sometimes if you are too desperate to do something it goes further and further away from you."

• Print
• Email
• Share