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Lara takes a 'break'

Brian Lara, who resigned as captain of the West Indies cricket team last week, announced on Friday that he is taking a break from the game ''with immediate effect''.

The 30-year-old batting sensation, who quit as captain following a disastrous tour of New Zealand where his team lost the two Tests it played and all five one-day internationals, in a statement said: ''I have come to the conclusion that it is essential for personal reasons that I take a break from cricket, for a short period with immediate effect.

"During this time, I intend, with the assistance of the appropriate professionals, to rebuild all facets of my game so as to sustain the remainder of my cricketing career."

With Zimbabwe's tour of the West Indies commencing tomorrow, it appears that Lara will miss the Test and one-day series as also the subsequent series against Pakistan, who arrive at the beginning of April.

''I regret any disappointment that my decision will cause West Indies cricket fans, but ask for your patience..

''I would also like to thank the West Indies Cricket Board for their support at this difficult time,'' he said.