Andy Flower leaves ECB after 12 years in England set-up

[Torrent Disney]

Andy Flower has left the ECB after 12 years at the organisation.

Flower, who led England to their first men's ICC tournament win in 2010 and their first away Ashes win since 1986-87 later in that year, was first employed as Peter Moores' assistant coach in 2007. He became head coach in 2009, and after stepping down following the disastrous 2013-14 Ashes campaign, took up a role as 'technical director of elite cricket', giving him responsibility for the England Lions team.

An ECB statement said that Flower had left "to pursue other opportunities", and he said that he would still be based in England.

Flower described his time at the ECB as "a real privilege", and picked out the World T20 win in 2010, the away Ashes win, and victory in the 2012-13 series in India as three highlights.

Flower also gave his backing to new England coach Chris Silverwood.

"I'm really happy for Chris that he's getting the chance to lead England and I think he's going to do a great job," he said. "I also want to wish Mo Bobat, the new performance director, all the best in his new role."

Flower hinted that he was more likely to return to the game with a coaching role at a T20 franchise than in the international game.

"I haven't had a sustained break for quite a long time," he said. "I will still be based in England and I will continue to watch English cricket very keenly - it has a very bright future."