Flower renews Eng contract

London - Andy Flower has signed a new contract to remain in the role of England team director, the England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed on Tuesday.

The former Zimbabwe captain, 43, took over from Peter Moores in January 2009 and has since guided the team to two Ashes series victories and World Twenty20 glory last year.

An ECB statement read: "ECB on Tuesday announced that Andy Flower has renewed his contract and will continue in his current role as England team director.

"Flower will remain on a permanent contract and is currently preparing for an international summer that sees England face Sri Lanka, India and Ireland."

Hugh Morris, managing director of England Cricket, is confident the team will continue their upward trend under Flower.

"Andy Flower has made a huge impact during his time as England team director and I am delighted that he has committed to the role and will be continuing to build on the considerable progress the England team has made during his time in the position," Morris said.

"Andy's outstanding leadership, commitment, and his open and honest approach have been key factors in the success the England squad has enjoyed over the last two years and I have no doubt that under his direction we will continue to see England improve as we strive to become the number one side in the world in all formats of the game."

The terms of the contract renewal have not been disclosed, although it is thought Flower - who expressed his frustrations over the team's hectic winter schedule - was keen on a clause permitting him to miss specific tours in a bid to avoid burnout.

England will face Sri Lanka this summer in a three-match Test Series followed by a Twenty20 and ODI series. Next up will be a four-match Test series against India followed by an ODI against Ireland in Dublin and then a Twenty20 and ODI series against India.