The New Zealand cricket team's new captain, Brendon McCullum, says he's insulted by rumours that he played a part in removing his predecessor, Ross Taylor.
On Friday it was announced that Taylor had been asked continue as captain in test matches while McCullum would lead the 20-20 and one-day sides.
Taylor refused to split the role and McCullum was named captain in all forms of the game.
Speaking at a news conference in Christchurch on Saturday afternoon, McCullum said he still has a good relationship with Taylor and the media are trying to drive a wedge between them.
To suggest "that I had any involvement in Ross Taylor's demise as captain at all is just insulting," he said.
"I guess that cuts right to the bone that someone would question your integrity and question your character like that..."
McCullum leads the team to South Africa next week without Taylor, who is taking a break from the game.
