Andrew Flintoff steps down as England Lions head coach

Andrew Flintoff has resigned as England Lions head coach with immediate effect, citing commitments to his role with Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League along with television work and family obligations. The 48-year-old took charge of the second-string side in September 2024. Mike Yardy, the England Under-19 head coach, will lead the Professional County Club Select XI that faces Pakistan in a four-day warm-up match at Beckenham starting Wednesday. England opener Emilio Gay suffered a shoulder injury while batting for Durham in the One-Day Cup and is a doubt for the first Test against Pakistan at Headingley on August 19.