“He led the team to win the World Cup brilliantly at Home Turf, making memories that we would never forget. The magical day in Lord's worked as a catalyst for the growth of women and girls for years for years.
“Heather is emotional to inspire young girls to play his role in playing cricket and make our game gender-balanced. She is a powerful role model for young professional women players and entertaining players. After starting his England career as an amateur, she always understands the significant relationship between England team and the ground level game.”
Knight said: “The captaincy of my country for the last nine years has been the greatest honor of my life and I will look back with a sense of pride in my tenure. I have loved the challenge of leading the team, but all good things have ended and I have to end in the rank and the best batsman and team to focus on being a team partner.
“Winning the ICC Women's World Cup at home turf at Lord's in 2017 would always be a huge attraction, but I am equally proud to be a part of the huge steps taken in women's game from the pitch.
“Thanks to all the players and employees who have given it everything on the way – especially Mark, Lisa and John, three head coaches with which I like to work. People work.
“Thanks to fans who have supported me and the team through high and climb. Finally, for my friends, family and long -affected partner Tim, you travel with me and I will not stay here without your support.
“I like to be the captain of England, it has been the most beneficial period of my career, but now I am excited to focus on my batting and support the team and the new captain that I can do.”
Knight started his England in 2010 and ten years later became the first England male or female player to score an international century in all three forms of the game.
ECB Chief Executive Officer Richard Gold said: “I am very grateful for everything given as captain in my time. The World Cup win and thrilling 2023 will live long in the ashes of women.
“Heather's influence as Captain has moved much further than his influence on the pitch. Through his leadership and dedication, he has inspired many women and girls to join the game, increasing the change of women's cricket that we have seen since 2016.
“As one of the best batsmen in the world, I am eager to see Heather playing for England for many years to come.”
She was one of the most consistent run-scores in the team in all formats during the night time as captain. In 2022, she became the first English woman to register in all three formats for centuries, with Tami Beomont to include her as the second next year.
Vithishan is a collaborative editor in Ihanhantrajah Espncricinfo
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