Former England captain Charlotte Edwards has announced she is leaving Kent after 16 seasons at the club.

Edwards, who is 37 this month, led Kent to the domestic double this summer.

"I would like to thank everyone at Kent County Cricket Club for all their support," she said. "I'm immensely proud to have played for the county and what the team has achieved within that time.

“Kent is very much seen as one of the leading counties within the women's game due to it consistently producing players to the England Pathway.

“It's been a really tough decision to leave Kent but ultimately I feel it's the right decision for me and more importantly the current team. Having won the double in 2016 I feel this is a fitting end to my time as a Kent cricketer.

“I have many memories and highlights from my Kent career, winning our first County Championship in 2006 at Uppingham school and the recent 2016 Double are obvious highlights.

“I'd like to thank all coaches, managers and players I have played with throughout the years. Kent will always have a special in my heart and I wish the team all the very best for the future.”

Charlotte joined Kent in 2000 after six seasons playing for East Anglia Women in the Women’s Area and County Championships.

Kent chief executive Jamie Clifford said: “It is a very sad day to see one of the stars of Kent cricket move on.

“Charlotte has, through huge amounts of selfless commitment to the Club, become the cornerstone of the game for women and girls in the county.

“She has done much for the profile and development of the game and her involvement has changed the direction of women’s cricket positively for evermore. Lottie will remain an icon of Kent Cricket and will always be welcomed by all who love cricket in the county."