Mickey Arthur sacked as coach of Australia: The reaction on Twitter

News comes just days from the start of the Ashes

(AP)

Several prominent former players and personalities took to Twitter this morning to express their views on Cricket Australia's apparent decision to sack coach Mickey Arthur just 16 days before the start of the Ashes.

CA will hold a press conference in Bristol at 1200 at which Press Association Sport understands the South African's dismissal will be confirmed, with Queensland coach Darren Lehmann - who is in England with the Australia A team - the likely candidate to take over.

Here, Press Association Sport looks at some of the early reaction:

Former England captain Michael Vaughan (MichaelVaughan): "For the 1st time in Months I am worried about Australia... If Darren Lehmann is the coach he will get them right .. £Ashes2013

"Darren Lehmann was taught everything by Yorkshireccc so we are in trouble !!!!!!!! I expect them to £Digin now...."

Ex-England all-rounder Paul Collingwood (Colly622): "Are Australia trying to cause as much disruption as possible before the Ashes? Micky Arthur sacked now! £shambles £ashestoashes"

Former England paceman Matthew Hoggard (Hoggy602): "Can't believe the timing of the sacking of Mickey Arthur ! Darren Lehman will be a fantastic replacement though ! £ashes"

Ex-Australia spinner Shane Warne (warne888): "Is it true that Aussie cricket coach Mick Arthur has been sacked ? Who's he's replacement followers ? WOW !!!!!"

Former Australia batsman Dean Jones, now a commentator (ProfDeano): "So Mick has gone... Sacked jut before an Ashes series... Timing is not great.. Anyways it shows CA is serious. Nice bloke tho! £boofcoach"

PA