Lehmann's selector vacancy veto is 'hogwash'

Darren Lehmann wanted to combine playing with a role on the national panel © Getty Images

Darren Lehmann says he was vetoed by Cricket Australia for a position on the Australian selection panel because he plans to carry on playing in the first-class arena. Lehmann, 35 and dumped from the Test team in December, said he had been sounded out for the role by Cricket Australia executives and other selectors.

"But basically if you're a player or a coach, you're not allowed to become a selector," Lehmann, who will captain South Australia next season, said. "I reckon that's hogwash. But that's not from Cricket Australia, it's come from higher up in the board. I'm very disappointed in that, but that's one of those things and if they want to go down that path, that's fine."

A Cricket Australia spokesman confirmed the board had decided last week to rule on eligibility for Border's replacement. "A few names were thrown around as a possible replacement, one of them was Darren," he said. "A number of candidates had significant state cricket roles and the board thought it would clarify its position. The board wants the best-qualified candidate, but did not believe he should have a significant operational role, such as a player or coach, while he's a selector."

Allan Border, who joined the panel in February 1998, resigned last April citing growing commitments. Lehmann played 27 Tests and scored 1,798 runs at an average of 44.95.