Andrew Flintoff has stepped down as head coach of the England Lions cricket team.The former England captain and all-rounder had been in the role since September 2024, and had been due to lead the side into their game against the touring Pakistan team on August 12.He was also set to coach the Lions — which is effectively the England reserve side, largely populated by young players who may serve the senior team in later years — for some of their winter tour to South Africa, starting on December 1.However, in June he agreed to become coach of the Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash, Australia’s T20 league, which is due to start on December 12. That meant he would have to leave the Lions tour early.Flintoff has now stepped down with immediate effect, saying: “Unfortunately I’ve made the decision to step away from my role with the Lions. Not only have I enjoyed my time having the opportunity to work with the best young cricketers in the country, but have taken great pride in seeing them develop.“I’d like to thank the coaches and staff for all their passion, tireless work and support they give everyday. 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.”Last week, while speaking to the media about the appointment of Stephen Fleming and Joe Root as the England Test team’s coach and captain respectively, managing director of England men’s cricket Key was asked about Flintoff being criticised for leaving the South Africa tour, and the status of English coaches in the national system.“For the last two years he has done that Lions job probably where he could have done a hell of a lot of other things, earning a lot more money,” said Key. “His passion to actually try and bring the next generation through, players like Sonny Baker and Mitch Stanley have come under his wing. He’s been outstanding in that job, and we’ve been incredibly fortunate to have him.“He’ll get the chance with Sydney Thunder to go and get more head coach experience, which I think he needs.“In the future, with a bit more experience under him, he could [be the senior England coach]. And him not being there at times in the Lions gives opportunity for other coaches. I think he’s an unsung hero.”