Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff has resigned as head coach of the England Lions, concluding his tenure with the national development side after less than two years. Flintoff, 48, was appointed to the role in September 2024 following his return to cricket after a serious accident while filming for the television programme Top Gear.

He will now dedicate his time to his position as head coach of Sydney Thunder in Australia’s Big Bash League, a role he assumed in June, according to Cricinfo.

“Unfortunately I’ve made the decision to step away from my role with the Lions,” Flintoff said in an England and Wales Cricket Board (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 expressed gratitude towards those involved in ECB operations, stating, “I’d like to thank the coaches and staff for all their passion, tireless work and support they give every day. In particular, Ed Barney, who I’ve loved working with and was so lucky to have as a performance director, and obviously Rob [Key] for trusting me with one of the most important roles in English cricket.”

“I can’t wait to get started with the Thunder later in the year and see where coaching takes me,” he added.

Initially, Flintoff was expected to balance his responsibilities with both the Lions and Sydney Thunder, with the ECB permitting him to miss two four-day matches in South Africa over the winter due to his Big Bash League commitments. However, he has now chosen to relinquish the Lions position entirely.

ECB men’s performance director Ed Barney praised Flintoff’s impact on the development programme during his tenure, stating, “Fred has helped to transform the Lions environment into a programme that has had a major impact on young players. By creating an environment that both supports and pushes excellence at all times, he has helped bring forward a new generation of young players.”

He added, “Coaches have also flourished alongside him, whether early in their coaching journey or with decades of experience, and he has consistently maximised the expertise around the group. We wish him the best in the next stage of his coaching career and look forward to a time he returns to the English game.”

Flintoff’s departure comes shortly after England men’s managing director Rob Key publicly commended his work with the Lions programme, stating the ECB was “incredibly fortunate to have him”.

Flintoff was scheduled to coach a Professional County Club Select XI in a four-day tour match against Pakistan beginning next Wednesday at Beckenham. Following his resignation, England Under-19 head coach Mike Yardy will now oversee the side for the fixture.

Also read: Pragg wins maiden Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz title