# Flintoff steps down as England Lions head coach

2026-08-08T06:06:16+00:00 | Sports | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Andrew Flintoff has stepped down as head coach of the England Lions less than two years after taking charge in September 2024. The former all-rounder will now focus on his role as head coach of Sydney Thunder in Australia's Big Bash League. The Times of India reports that Flintoff said he 'took great pride' in seeing young players develop but had decided to move on. Ed Barney, ECB performance director, credited Flintoff with transforming the Lions programme. Mike Yardy, England Under-19 head coach, will take charge of the side for Pakistan's four-day warm-up match starting August 12.

## Coverage

- timesofindia.indiatimes.com <https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/andrew-flintoff-steps-down-as-england-lions-head-coach-set-to-focus-on-sydney-thunder-role/articleshow/133045997.cms>
- rediff.com <https://www.rediff.com/cricket/report/andrew-flintoff-resigns-as-england-lions-coach-to-focus-on-sydney-thunder/20260808.htm>

Tags: Andrew Flintoff, Big Bash League, county cricket, ECB, England Lions, Sydney Thunder
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