Vanuatu cricket captain Mansale to step down after 10 years

Vanuatu cricket captain Andrew Mansale has decided to step down from the role after more than a decade at the helm.

However, having already played for 16 years, Mansale will still continue to play for the men's team.

"I cannot believe that the years have gone by so quickly but I have enjoyed every moment of it and the best part for me is seeing the boys develop into the great cricketers they are now," Mansele said.

The president of the Vanuatu cricket association, Mark Stafford, said Mansale's captaincy was marked the team's rocketing up the international rankings and the growth of the sport in Vanuatu.

"Andrew has shown rare grace and diplomacy over the time that he has been captain of Vanuatu. He has received compliments from many people and has deserved them all," Stafford said.

Mansele says being trusted with the captaincy was an honour, but he feels the time has come to pass the responsibility on to someone else.

"I will miss making decisions in the field, naming the team, coffee and discussions with coaches and most of all leading the team as the captain but I know that the future is bright for the team. Thank you," Mansale concluded in a statement.