IAN BOTHAM yesterday failed to become an England selector.

The former all rounder finished down the list of eight candidates to join Ray Illingworth's committee, while Graham Gooch and David Graveney emerged triumphant.

Lord's have refused to reveal details of the poll. But when TCCB chief executive Man Smith counted the votes yesterday morning cast by 18 first class counties, MCC and Minor Counties, Botham had fallen short of the support needed to clinch one of the two vacancies on a five man panel.

The result will not delight Illingworth, who had publicly backed Brian Bolus and John Edrich.

Instead, TCCB members have elected former England captain Gooch, who is continuing to play for Essex this season, and Graveney - who wanted to stand against Illingworth as chairman just a few weeks ago.

Graveney's appointment, in particular, will be seen by many as an anti Illingworth vote.

But the former Gloucestershire, Somerset and Durham spinner yesterday pledged to work as hard as he can for the cause.

"I'm just looking forward to fulfilling whatever tasks the chairman gives me," said Graveney.