"The coaching staff were present, as were the manager. At the end of the meeting the captaincy issue was raised. Mike stated that we needed a new captain in order to move forward. Brendon McCullum had to be captain, his opinion that Ross was not up to it."
"On arrival in Galle I bumped into Bob Carter in an open corridor where he informed me he'd just been in a meeting with Mike Sandle and Mike Hesson where the latter told Ross he was no longer wanted as captain."
"Bob was clearly a little stunned and commented on how upset Ross was."
"I later bumped into Mike on the way to dinner. He informed me that he'd told Ross he was no longer wanted as captain. I stated that the timing was completely inappropriate and he had most likely affected the ability of the captain to perform and it seemed like sabotage."
"I went to see Ross to console him and offer my support."
"On returning home I've witnessed the change of captain and the public fall out."
"I've congratulated the new captain by text and have had a positive response from him."
"I've followed the media coverage intently including TV, print, online and radio."
"I've listened fully to interviews with Ross, Mike and David White."
"I've found the content of these interviews distressing. I believe the coach has been dishonest in his assertion around the miscommunication of the captaincy split with Ross."
"At no time during my conversations with Mike Hesson, that mostly included Bob Carter and/or the manager was the captaincy spilt ever suggested."
It was clear to me that Ross Taylor was to be removed as captain from all three formats.
I have no issue with the coaching wanting his own captain, I think that is correct.
I believe Brendon was aware of this as Mike stated he was the man to lead the team forward.
I don't believe he would have initiated the conversation with Ross unless he knew Brendon would accept.
I believe Brendon would've been prepared for that scenario.
Putting Taylor aside, this leaves me personally in an extremely difficult position.
By remaining silent I believe I become complicit in what has occurred, which I believe is the calculated removal of the captain and the subsequent cover up to save face.
If I speak up I risk alienating a number of people, the coaches, manager and the new captain.
I love my job and I believe I can make a difference moving forward.
If asked about this situation I feel I am compelled to be honest and tell my version of events.
And moreover, the position of coaches and managers must have integrity at their core.
I'm certain of the facts that I've set out here which are clearly in conflict with media interviews.
