Gatting goes on but Morris steps down

Middlesex have re-appointed Mike Gatting as their captain for next season, but another former England batsman, Hugh Morris, is to stand down at Glamorgan.

Gatting will become the longest-serving captain in county cricket, a position he has held jointly with Derbyshire's Kim Barnett, who intends to step down at the end of the season.

The 38-year-old Gatting, who made his debut 20 years ago, has been Middlesex captain since 1983 and led them to the Championship in 1985, 1990 and 1993.

The 31-year-old Morris, in his second spell in charge, guided Glamorgan to the AXA Equity and Law League title in 1993 - their first trophy since winning the Championship in 1969. His successor will be chosen during the close season.

Gatting, meanwhile, has not given up hope of a fourth Championship pennant this year, but only three balls were bowled at Uxbridge yesterday in their match against Leicestershire, the only first-class game to have started anywhere in the country.

A rebel group have forced Surrey to call a special meeting at The Oval on 5 October over the team's poor playing performance. The Surrey Action Group obtained 394 signatures on a petition demanding an action plan from the club's General Committee to restore Surrey's fortunes. They also want the Cricket Committee to be restored and a greater say for members in the policy of the club.