Richard Bates steps down as England coach

Richard Bates, the England Women's head coach, is stepping down from his role after four years.

"In some ways it is sad to be leaving the post as I still very much enjoy the job and have built up some strong relationships with the girls and support staff along the way," Bates said. "However I am equally as excited about moving on to fresh challenges in the future. It has been a tough decision for me but ultimately I feel the time is right for me to move on now.

"My family and I have decided to take the opportunity to move to Australia and are very much looking forward to the challenge and adventure ahead."

Bates, 34, took over from John Harmer in July 2003 and has led England to four consecutive home series victories over South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and India. He was coach for England's Ashes win in 2005, also leading them to their first victory over Australia in a one-day international in 12 years that same season.

"It has been a very enjoyable four years and I have found it very rewarding working with an excellent management team and a talented group of players," he said. "I'm proud of the girls' achievements in recent times and they are now showing that they can compete with other top nations on a regular basis which augers well for the key tournaments starting with the next World Cup in 2009.

"It has been an honour and a pleasure to be part of the girls' successes in recent times, the highlight for me of course was winning the Ashes for the first time in 42 years and seeing how much it meant to the girls."