Ashley Giles steps down as England team's Managing Director, Andrew Strauss takes over on interim basis

In what can be called a shocking announcement, Ashley Giles has stepped down as the Managing Director of England men’s cricket team. The former England spinner is leaving the position at the helm after three years. During this period, England lifted the 2019 World Cup and also are the top-ranked T20I team at the moment. In ODIs and Tests, the Three Lions currently find themselves at the second and fourth place respectively.

Former England captain Andrew Strauss will serve at the position on an interim basis. Hence, the ex-opener will also oversee the arrangements for the forthcoming West Indies Tour. In the meantime, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) will search for a full-time replacement. Meanwhile, Ashley, who was appointed for the role in December 2018, has expressed gratitude towards the board.

I’m proud of England’s performance in recent years: Ashley Giles

“I’d like to thank everyone for the support they’ve given me, particularly all the staff and the players, as well as the Board for giving me this opportunity. The past couple of years have been incredibly challenging and I’m proud of what we’ve been able to deliver in the toughest of circumstances. This has undoubtedly protected the future of the game in England and Wales,” Giles said in a statement released by ECB.

“Despite these challenges, over the past three years, we have become 50-over World Champions, the top ranked T20I side in the world, we remain 4th ranked Test team and our under 19s have just reached the World Cup final for the first time in 24 years. I wish all our players and staff great success for the future,” he added.

Meanwhile, ECB Chief Executive Officer Tom Harrison also lauded Giles for his services towards the national team. “I’m extremely grateful to Ashley for his commitment and contribution to England men’s cricket over the last three years,” stated Harrison.

“Under his leadership the teams have scored some notable results, most memorably the dramatic victory in the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, while dealing with some of the most challenging times English cricket has ever been through,” he further said.