LONDON — Former England coach Andy Flower said on Saturday that he was stepping down from working with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) after 12 years.

Zimbabwean Flower coached England to Ashes glory three times between 2009 and 2014, with England reaching number one in the Test rankings during his five-year spell in charge as well as clinching a surprise World T20 triumph in 2010.

For the last five years, Flower, 51, has coached England's second-tier Lions team, but will now leave the ECB.

"It’s been a real privilege," he said in a statement. "The Ashes victory in 2010-11 stands out. It's difficult to win in Australia, and to do it so comprehensively was a really proud moment in my coaching career.

"I will still be based in England and I will continue to watch English cricket very keenly – it has a very bright future."

ECB managing director, Ashley Giles, praised the work Flower had done during his time in England.

"Andy moves on with every best wish from all of us at ECB for his outstanding contribution to the English game over the last 12 years," Giles said in a statement.

"It has been a pleasure working with Andy, who sets such high standards of professionalism and preparation for the teams he leads. I have no doubt he will enjoy further success in the years to come." — Reuters