Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has stepped down as head coach of the England Lions after less than two years in charge. Appointed in September 2024, Flintoff will now focus on his role as head coach of Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League. The ECB praised his impact on developing young players and transforming the Lions programme.

London: Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has stepped down as head coach of the England Lions, ending his tenure with the national development side less than two years after taking charge.

Flintoff, 48, was appointed Lions head coach in September 2024 after returning to cricket following a serious accident while filming for the television programme Top Gear. He will now focus on his new role as head coach of Sydney Thunder in Australia's Big Bash League, a position he took up in June, according to Cricinfo.

"Unfortunately I've made the decision to step away from my role with the Lions," Flintoff said in an ECB press release.

"Not only have I enjoyed my time having the opportunity to work with the best young cricketers in the country, but I have taken great pride in seeing them develop," he added.