Open arms for return of Nasser

But Hussain's job as captain for Thursday week's first Test against South Africa at Edgbaston is not even open to debate.

Even so, picking up the reins again - which he put down after a 2-0 series success against Zimbabwe - could be a curious experience for Hussain, who had been England's main man in every way, on and off the field, for four years.

"I've made a point of ringing him on a regular basis because you could create a situation where he felt a little bit on the outside," revealed Graveney.

While Vaughan has clearly enjoyed the experience of leading England to two one-day trophies in little more than a month, he will happily return to the ranks next week.

"If and when the Test job becomes available I hope my name is mentioned," said Vaughan. But, in case there are Doubting Thomases who wonder whether two current England captains in one England team is a recipe for disaster, a man who knows them both well doesn't foresee any difficulties.

"Vaughany is the type of character who will enjoy his success as captain but then go back and give Nasser his total backing," said Darren Gough - man of the match in Saturday's final, almost man of the NatWest series and, in his dreams at least, the man to lead England's attack at Edgbaston come the First Test.

Whether or not to pick Gough this Friday is the toughest call for Graveney and Co. A knee which was operated on three times last year came through these one-day games better than anyone dared hope, allowing Gough to bowl magnificently.

The selectors know they will be flayed for their 'foolish optimism' if they play Gough in Birmingham and he breaks down - as happened when they took him to Australia last winter.

But then again . . . "Darren is a major influence, he's a hero," said Graveney. "You can feel the response from the crowd when he marks out his run-up."

Regardless of whether he is chosen, though, Gough will give Hussain his full backing.

"I can't say a bad word about Nasser," said the Yorkshire paceman. " I think he has been terrific for England. His heart is on his sleeve and he gets the best out of his players by being Nasser - by almost intimidating them to a certain extent.

"But when it comes down to it, although he might give you a rollicking, you know he backs you.

"Nasser is a top quality person, a great captain and I would run through a brick wall for him. As for Vaughany, I think he has surprised a lot of people.

"He doesn't really say much as a player but he's come in as a captain and had plenty to say. He's a great believer in getting everyone involved and then he makes the final decision.

"He's probably a lot more relaxed than Nasser."