LANCASHIRE confirmed today that John Crawley had been sacked as captain.

The Old Trafford club refused to name his successor but Warren Hegg, Crawley's deputy for the last three seasons, is expected to take over.

Crawley lost the job after a disastrous season which also resulted in the exit of coach Bob Simpson and all-rounder Joe Scuderi.

He took over in 1999 from Wasim Akram and lifted the 45 overs league trophy in his first season, but Lancashire's one-day form slumped after that and last summer they faced the threat of relegation to the Second Division of the championship until the final game.

Crawley, on holiday, was unavailable for comment today but said recently: "I did the best I could with the players available."

Chief executive Jim Cumbes said: "We would like to thank John for all the work he has put in and we hope that he can go on to reclaim his place in the England side."

Lancashire are now looking forward to a new era under cricket manager Mike Watkinson who has just signed a three year deal, but they still have to sort out a contract for next season with Neil Fairbrother.