Strauss steps down from Director of England Cricket role
Former England star Andrew Strauss has announced that he is to step down from his role as Director of England Cricket after three and a half years in the position, according to a report on the ECB.
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Andy Fowler has been given the role on an interim basis for the last four months and will continue to do so until a permanent successor is found.
England are expected to announce their new full-time replacement before the tour of West Indies next year.
Strauss has taken plenty of time to think about his role and he has decided to do more flexible work with the English Cricket Board and will be part of the team who searches for his successor.
Strauss clearly enjoyed his time in the position but believes that he needs to give adequate support to his family. He said:
After three and a half incredible years with the ECB, I have taken the difficult decision to step down from my role as Director of England Cricket.
Next year is potentially the most important the game has had in this country, with the World Cup on home soil and a home Ashes series, and we have an incredible opportunity to do something special. It is vital that the Director of Cricket can give consistent guidance and support to England Cricket through this period.
Taking time out this summer to support my wife and kids, as Ruth goes through treatment for cancer, has given me the chance to fully consider what’s right for England and what’s needed at home. The role in cricket requires total focus and commitment to deliver the best results, yet right now I need far more flexibility than could ever be possible in my position in order to support my family.
I will not be leaving the game completely – initially helping Tom to shape the role for my successor, then supporting a range of other ECB projects – but it’s important to see someone else in place for a crucial summer in 2019.