ENGLAND skipper Michael Vaughan has been branded "totally out of order" by Worcestershire chairman John Elliott over his stinging criticism of county cricket.

The New Road chief said that Vaughan and Co "should look at themselves" rather than blame the domestic game for England's struggles.

Vaughan blamed the county game for his team's inability to grasp several opportunities as they lost the fourth Test with South Africa.

But Elliott said: "I am very disappointed on reading his statement, having only captained England in just three Tests. I think he is totally out of order doing that.

"What is it saying for the English county cricket clubs who are striving to improve the game and standard of cricket in England?

"He has basically called the players a load of wimps who are not good enough to play Test cricket.

"We have done everything for them and they still can't get out there and play the game. I think they should look internally at themselves rather than complain about English county cricket."

Elliott added: "I am in favour of central contracts but I think the system should be fine-tuned. Many a time a player is better off playing cricket than just idling around."