Heather Knight has stepped down as captain of the England women's cricket team after nine years, following a series of disappointing results.

England was eliminated in the group stage of last year’s T20 World Cup and suffered a 16-0 defeat in this year’s multi-format Ashes series against Australia.

“Leading my country for the past nine years has been the greatest honor of my life, and I will always take immense pride in my tenure,” Knight said in a statement released by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Saturday. “I have relished the challenge of captaincy, but all good things must come to an end. It’s time for me to step back and focus on being the best batter and teammate I can be.”

Her resignation follows the removal of head coach Jon Lewis just a day earlier, signaling significant changes within the team.

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The ECB confirmed that Knight, 34, will remain available for selection, with a new captain set to be appointed soon.

Since taking over as captain in 2016, Knight has led England in 199 matches, steering the team to a World Cup victory on home soil in 2017 and two other ICC tournament finals. With 134 wins, she is England’s second-most successful women’s captain and oversaw a record-breaking streak of eight consecutive ODI wins.

“Heather has been an exceptional leader for England Women,” said Clare Connor, ECB’s deputy chief executive. “She has set an example both on and off the field, serving as an inspiration through her performances and leadership.”

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Connor also praised Knight’s role in boosting the popularity of women’s and girls’ cricket, calling her a role model for both professional and recreational players.

Source: Wiht input from agency