Michael Vaughan steps back from BBC role after backlash from fellow staff

Former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan has "taken the decision to step back" from his role at the BBC.

In a statement on social media, Vaughan wrote: "On numerous occasions, I have put on record my views on the issues concerning YCCC.

"It is always regrettable when commentary on matters off the field take the focus away from what's happening on the field. In view of the ongoing dialogue on the subject, I have taken the decision to step back from my work with the BBC for the time being.

"The key driver for this is my concern for the wellbeing of my family members and my wish to protect their family life. Stepping back temporarily is also in the interests of the game and I hope that it will minimise any difficulties for my work colleagues."

Vaughan returned to coverage of the England team earlier this month for their ongoing Test series against New Zealand. But that decision was branded "totally inexcusable" and a "shocking miscalculation" in a letter written to the BBC by the BBC Sport BAME Advisory Group and 5 Live Diversity Group.

The England and Wales Cricket Board announced a "number of individuals" and Yorkshire had been charged after investigations of racism allegations at the county. Vaughan is thought to be among those charged by the ECB, which is detailed in the open letter.

The Cricketer revealed the full letter sent by the BBC Sport BAME Advisory Group and 5 Live Diversity Group earlier this week.

The letter read: “With Michael Vaughan implicated in this scandal and now understood to be charged by the ECB, it feels totally inexcusable that he should continue to appear, as a representative of BBC Sport.

“We appreciate that there are elements of detail that can’t be shared about Michael Vaughan’s