London: Michael Vaughan and Paul Collingwood announced on Sunday that they were stepping down as England's Test and One Day captains. Vaughan's decision comes after Saturday's five wicket defeat against South Africa in the third Test at Edgbaston, which gave the Pro teas an unassailable 2-0 lead in four match series and their first series win in England since 1965.

It meant the 33 years old batsman had overseen three series losses against top-class oppositions since returning from a career threatening knee injury. His announcement was followed by that of 32 year old Durham all-rounder Collingwood, who said in a statement that his game had suffered as a result of taking on the ODI captaincy.

"I've made the decision to stand down as England captain," a tearful Vaughan told a press conference. "It's the hardest decision I've ever had to make but also the easiest. The hardest because I'm giving away the job I've loved for the last five years but also easiest because  my mind has told me to pack it in. I felt if I kept going my career could come to an abrupt end."

Kevin Pietersen is favourite to be appointed both Test and One Day captain, but candidates include Andrew Strauss, Alastair Cook and Ian Bell. A decision is expected on Monday.