Heather Knight has stepped down as England Women's captain after a remarkable nine-year tenure leading the team

"Heather leaves the captaincy with a legacy of resilience, commitment, and success. She has helped shape the team and the women's game in England in ways that will be felt for years to come." Knight’s departure marks the second major change in England Women’s setup in as many days, following Jon Lewis’ sacking as head coach. Heather Knight’s Captaincy Highlights 199 matches as captain (the most for England Women). 2017 Women’s ODI World Cup win at Lord’s. Finalist in the 2018 and 2022 ICC tournaments. Ashes century in Canberra (2022), one of her finest Test innings. This marks the end of an era for England Women’s cricket, but also the beginning of a new leadership chapter. Heather Knight Steps Down as England Women’s Captain After Nine Years Heather Knight has officially stepped down as England Women’s captain, bringing an end to an extraordinary nine-year tenure that saw her lead the team to historic success. Knight, 34, remains available for selection and is eager to focus on her batting as England enters a new era. Knight’s Statement Reflecting on her time as captain, Knight said: “Captaining my country for the last nine years has been the biggest honour of my life, and I will look back on my tenure with an enormous sense of pride. I have loved the challenge of leading the team, but all good things come to an end, and it’s time for me to go back into the ranks and focus on being the best batter and teammate that I can be for the team.” She highlighted the 2017 World Cup victory at Lord’s as a major career highlight but emphasized that she was equally proud of the progress made in growing women’s cricket off the pitch. A Transformational Captaincy 199 matches as captain, making her the longest-serving England Women’s captain. 2017 ICC Women’s World Cup champion, leading England to victory at Lord’s. First England player (male or female) to score international centuries in all three formats. Ashes-winning captain, including a thrilling drawn series in 2023. Key figure in professionalizing women’s cricket in England, inspiring future generations. Tributes & ECB’s Response ECB CEO Richard Gould praised Knight’s leadership, saying: "Heather’s influence has extended far beyond her performances on the pitch. She has inspired many women and girls to get involved in the sport, fuelling the transformation of women’s cricket since 2016." Managing director Clare Connor added: "She has led by example, scoring runs in the toughest conditions, and has been a role model both on and off the field." With Knight stepping down and Jon Lewis removed as head coach, this marks the start of a new chapter for England Women’s cricket.