Richie Benaud gives his views on who he thinks will take over from Mark Taylor

Taylor, Australian captain since 1994 and named Australian of the Year last week, said he wanted to spend more time with his family.

He is expected to take up a career as a television commentator on the game.

Mark Taylor: "I'm not sad"

"I sit here quite happy that I have achieved more in the game, more than I ever thought I would achieve as a person and as a player," he told a news conference.

Taylor had said previously he would make himself available for Australia's tour of West Indies starting on 22 February but reconsidered his position.

He has played 104 Test matches and last October equalled Don Bradman's Australian Test record score when he made an unbeaten 334 against Pakistan.

The 34-year-old has led Australia to three Ashes series victories over England during his spell as captain.

Steve Waugh: Injury problems

The selectors are now likely to turn to regular one-day skipper Steve Waugh and Shane Warne for the trip to the Caribbean.

"I think it would be the greatest honour for any cricketer. To be captain would be the ultimate thing, if I got it," said Waugh.

"Australia has the best tradition in cricket of any country in the world and to be captain of that team, it doesn't get any better than that."

But Waugh's injury problems have given Warne the chance to lead the side in the current triangular one-day series against England and Sri Lanka.

"You've got three or four guys who could do it. I think Ian Healy could do it, I think Mark Waugh could do it, I think Stevie could do it and if I had a chance I think I'd be OK too."

Warne: Impressed as Waugh's deputy

"I think it's one of the toughest jobs in Australia. Eight or nine months a year away from the family, it's such a hard thing to do - but I'm sure it's one of the most enjoyable too," leg-spinner Warne commented.

His performances have won him the backing of former skipper Ian Chappell, who believes Warne should lead the team in Tests and one-day games.

"He's pro-active, he makes things happen and he has a very good cricket brain," said Chappell.