Wicketkeeper Tim Paine has stood down as Tasmania's vice-captain and been replaced by Alex Doolan.
Paine's leadership potential has long been recognised and there was a
time when he was considered a potential future national captain, but his
own disappointment with his form over the summer has left him wanting
to concentrate more on his own game.
Paine, 29, scored 473 Sheffield Shield runs at 31.53 during the 2013-14
summer and is still searching for his second century at first-class
level, having not reached triple-figures since he made 215 in October
2006. He has played four Tests and 26 one-day internationals for
Australia but has not represented his country since early 2011, having
struggled with finger injuries.
"I made the decision to step down so that I can spend more time
concentrating on my own game" Paine said. "I didn't have the season I
would have liked with the bat and as a result I made the decision to
step aside and let somebody else take the reins. I've given as much as I
can to the role and it will be good to have someone with different
ideas to lead the team."
Doolan, 28, will step up as deputy to Tasmania's captain George Bailey,
although his availability for the state will depend in part upon his
ability to retain his place as the incumbent Test No.3. The presence of
Doolan in the Test team and Bailey in Australia's shorter formats should
mean that one of them will be present for the Tigers at most times.
"I'm really looking forward to working more closely with George and
[deputy vice-captain] Xavier Doherty as well as our coaching staff,"
Doolan said. "I'm excited to also possibly have the opportunity to lead
the Tigers when George is off representing Australia. We have a
fantastic group of talented players and I have no doubt we can continue
to challenge for one-day and first-class titles next season and into the
future."
© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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