Andrew Strauss, former England captain and current director of England cricket board has decided to step down from his position after being at the helm for more than three years.

Strauss was appointed to the newly created role of director of England cricket in May 2015, after a rejig in the ECB made Paul Downton’s role as managing director becoming unneeded. Strauss was also known for his controversial decision of ending Kevin Pietersen’s England career, as he put an end to all the hopes of a revival of his career.

Strauss also removed Peter Moores as England coach and replaced him with Trevor Bayliss and his inputs led to England slowly turning into a limited overs powerhouse, with more emphasis on embracing the new ODI techniques and incorporating limited overs specialists in the team.

Explaining the decision, Andrew 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. 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.”

Tom Harrison, Chief Executive Officer of the ECB, 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.”

“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. He has improved the ways we work and set the direction for the men’s Test, One-Day and T20 teams,” he added.

(Inputs: www.ecb.co.uk)