Andy Flower to leave England cricket after 12-year association

Under his tenure, England won the Ashes for the first time in Australia in 24 years © Getty

Andy Flower, the former head coach of England, is leaving ECB after serving the country with distinction in various roles for 12 years.

In May 2007, Flower was named as the assistant coach to Peter Moores, replacing Matthew Maynard. He then took over the mantle of being the head coach from Moores in 2009. Since 2014, he had been coaching the England Lions squad.

Under his tenure, England won the Ashes for the first time in Australia in 24 years and also overcame their arch-rivals in a couple of Ashes series at home. England also hoisted the World T20 trophy in 2010 and went on to take the top spot in Test rankings after defeating India in 2011. In 2012-13, the national side also won their first Test series in India since the David Gower-led side triumphed in 1984-85.

"The Ashes victory in 2010-11 stands out. It's difficult to win in Australia, and to do it so comprehensively was a really proud moment in my coaching career. The win in India in 2012-13 was a highlight too. To overcome some great players in tough spinning conditions was a special victory.

"So was the T20 World Cup win in 2010. The way we played our cricket, with such freedom and aggression, really was fun to be part of."

But apart from the success on field, Flower also cherished the time he spent off it, and was grateful for the support he received. "When people place their trust in you like that it gives you a tremendous sense of confidence and I will always remember that. I'd like to thank the captains I worked with longest, Alastair Cook and Andrew Strauss, for their commitment and friendship over the years. It's been a privilege to work with all the players. Sometimes, in high-pressure environments, as a coach and a mentor you hold a very responsible position."