OVER the scandal involving Yorkshire racism, former England captain Michael Vaughan temporarily resigned from his position at the BBC

Vaughan, 47 years old, was arrested earlier in the month. He has continued to appear on Test Match Special despite being charged.

Vaughan stated in a statement that he had made numerous statements regarding his views on the issues relating to YCCC.

"It is always regrettable that commentary on matters outside the field distracts from the actual field.

"In light of the ongoing dialogue about the subject, I have decided to step aside from my work at the BBC for the moment.

"It is my concern for my family's well-being and my desire to protect their family lives that drives this decision.

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"Stepping back temporarily in the interest of the game is also in my best interests and I hope it will minimize any difficulties for me work colleagues."

The BBC replied: "Following discussions with Michael Vaughan, we've accepted his decision not to continue our cricket coverage."

"This is a decision that we respect and fully understand.

"Michael is still under contract to BBC."

Vaughan, along with three other ex-England cricket players, have been accused of bringing disrepute to cricket over allegations of racism.

Ashes-winning captain Vaughan and Matthew Hoggard, bowler Matthew Hoggard and Gary Ballance, all-rounder Tim Bresnan, are accused of using racist and discriminatory language

Andrew Gale, an ex-Yorkshire skipper, is thought to be one of seven people charged.

After Azeem Rafiq, a former Yorkshire all-rounder, made public his claims of being racially abused in the county.

Hoggard denied the allegations. Bresnan also denied using racist language toward Rafiq. Ballance, on the other hand, admitted calling Rafiq "P ***"" but said it was just "banter” with his best friend.

The Cricket Disciplinary Committee will hear the cases in September or October. However, this may be delayed by legal wrangling.

Vaughan and the other players intend to fight the charges. They will also have the opportunity to present their side under cross-examination.

Ballance, despite not having played this season, is the only remaining player on the Yorkshire staff.

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Rafiq provided a witness testimony to the ECB. He stated: "I appreciate the announcement of the ECB. I hope we can get to the hearing fast.

"This was another difficult, but necessary process.

"It's been two years since my public disclosures about my experiences. But I hope that this will all mean that no young player ever has to go through such pain or alienation again."