Explaining his decision, Strauss 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. Taking time out this summer to support my wife and kids, has given me the chance to fully consider what’s right for England and what’s needed at home. 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.”Â
ALSO READ: Flower to head ECB till Strauss’ compassionate leave ends
He further added, “It has been hugely motivating and enjoyable to be working for the ECB and England cricket. I have been fortunate to be at the ECB at a time when ground-breaking progress has been made, giving cricket a platform to evolve and inspire for years to come. I would like to express my gratitude to Tom, Colin Graves and the leadership team for their commitment and support in helping to drive English cricket forward. Finally, I would like to wish Trevor, Paul, Joe, Eoin and all of those involved in the England teams all the very best in a historical year in 2019.”
Explaining the decision, Andrew Strauss said: pic.twitter.com/QNSuqR7ua1
— England and Wales Cricket Board (@ECB_cricket) October 3, 2018
After ruling out a return for the banished Kevin Pietersen, one of Strauss’ first acts was to appoint Trevor Bayliss as head coach, and between them, they have helped transform England’s white-ball cricket. The Test team have remained strong at home but struggled overseas. Strauss overhauled England’s method of selecting squads this year, appointing Ed Smith as the national selector.
Andrew Strauss steps down as Director of England Crickethttps://t.co/Jm82lIKXbe pic.twitter.com/3VPmozgb53
— England and Wales Cricket Board (@ECB_cricket) October 3, 2018
Talking about the same, Harrison said, “I know that I speak for everyone at the ECB when I say that we’re very sad to see Andrew step down from the role and we all wish him and his family the very best. He is an exceptional talent and it is easy to see how he has made a success of each step in his career. Andrew has brought enormous credibility, measured thinking, strong leadership and exceptional insight and we have been extremely fortunate to have worked so closely with him for the last three and a half years. But whilst Andrew leaves the post he is not lost to the ECB. He is uniquely placed to help us define the role and help recruit the right person to build on his exceptional work.”
