Andrew Strauss will take on a more versatile role within the England & Wales Cricket Board.GETTY IMAGES
ANDREW STRAUSS stepped down as England's director of cricket after three-and-a-half years and "following a spell of compassionate leave," according to Tom Bryant of the London GUARDIAN. The former England captain took a break from day-to-day duties in the summer to help care for his wife, Ruth, who was diagnosed with cancer during the Ashes in December, and said that he is "no longer able to offer full focus on the national side as he continues to support his family." ANDY FLOWER, who has covered the role for the past four months, will continue in his interim capacity until December. A full-time appointment will be made before England's tour of the West Indies in January ahead of what will be an "important year" for England as it hosts a World Cup and an Ashes series. Strauss said, "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." Strauss will take on a "more versatile role" within the England & Wales Cricket Board, initially supporting CEO TOM HARRISON in the process of recruiting a full-time successor. Flower, a former head coach with England, is one candidate to take the role on a full-time basis. Also thought to be a "strong candidate" is ALEC STEWART, who as Surrey County Cricket Club's director of cricket steered the side to victory in the County Championship (GUARDIAN, 10/3).
