Heather Knight Resigns as England Women's Captain Following Jon Lewis Exit
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Synopsis
Heather Knight has announced her resignation as the captain of the England women's cricket team after nearly nine years. This change follows head coach Jon Lewis' departure after a significant loss to Australia in the Ashes series. Knight remains available for selection as the ECB prepares to appoint a new leader for the team.
Key Takeaways
- Heather Knight resigns as England women's team captain.
- She served for nearly nine years and led the team in 199 matches.
- Known for her 134 wins as captain, making her one of the most successful.
- Led the team to a World Cup victory in 2017.
- New captain to be appointed soon by the ECB.
London, March 22 (NationPress) Heather Knight has officially resigned as the captain of the England women's cricket team after nearly nine years, as announced by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Saturday. This decision follows the recent exit of head coach Jon Lewis after the team's disappointing 16-0 defeat against Australia in the Ashes series. Knight remains available for selection.
Since taking over the captaincy in 2016, Knight has led the team in 199 matches, including a memorable home World Cup victory in 2017 and participation in two other ICC tournament finals. Under her leadership, the team secured 134 wins, making her one of the most successful captains in the history of England women's cricket.
She also guided the team to an impressive run of eight consecutive ODI series victories, including a notable win against Australia during the 2023 home Ashes. This series, combined with their success in the T20I format, significantly elevated the profile of women's cricket internationally.
“Despite the recent underwhelming performances in last year's T20 World Cup held in the UAE and the latest Ashes series, the ECB has decided it is time for a new captain to lead the team into a fresh era. A successor to Knight will be named soon,” the ECB remarked in their statement.
“Leading my country for the past nine years has been the greatest honor of my life, and I will cherish my time in this role with immense pride. I have enjoyed the challenges of captaining this team, but now it’s time for me to return to the ranks and concentrate on being the best player and teammate I can be,” Knight expressed.
“Winning the ICC Women’s World Cup at Lord’s in 2017 will always be a standout moment for me, but contributing to the significant advancements in women's cricket off the pitch brings me equal pride.
“I want to extend my gratitude to all the players and staff who have dedicated themselves throughout this journey—especially Mark, Lisa, and Jon, three head coaches I have thoroughly enjoyed working with. The people are what make this job rewarding.
“I also want to thank the fans who have supported me and the team through both successes and challenges. Lastly, to my friends, family, and my long-suffering partner Tim, you have been with me every step of the way, and I couldn’t have done this without your unwavering support.
“Being the captain of England has been immensely fulfilling, but for now, I’m looking forward to focusing on my batting and supporting the team and the new captain in the best way possible,” she added.
Knight made her debut for England in 2010 and a decade later became the first player in England's history, men’s or women’s, to score an international century across all three formats.
Clare Connor, ECB Managing Director of England Women and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, stated, “Heather has been an exemplary leader as England Women’s Captain. She has set a high standard both on and off the field, as evidenced by her performances, which often came in the most challenging circumstances.
“Heather has celebrated numerous highlights during her captaincy. I will always remember her magnificent century in the Ashes Test at Canberra in 2022, where her individual brilliance nearly led to a remarkable victory for the team. It was an innings filled with skill and determination.
“She expertly guided the team to a World Cup victory on home soil, creating unforgettable memories. That iconic day at Lord’s served as a catalyst for the growth we have witnessed in women’s and girls’ cricket since then.
“Heather is deeply committed to inspiring young girls to take up cricket and is dedicated to promoting gender balance in our sport. She stands as a powerful role model for young female professionals and recreational players alike. Having started her England career as an amateur, she recognizes the crucial connection between the England team and grassroots cricket.
