The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced the appointment of legendary former captain Charlotte Edwards as the new head coach of the England women’s cricket team.
Edwards, 45, replaces Jon Lewis, who was sacked in March following the team’s disappointing performance in the Ashes series in Australia. Lewis’s departure was followed by the sacking of captain Heather Knight, who will remain with the team as a player under Edwards’ leadership.
Edwards, England’s all-time leading run-scorer, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having played over 300 times for England in a 19-year career, including 10 years as captain. During her tenure as captain, Edwards led the team to three Ashes series victories and both the 50-over and 20-over World Cups in 2009.
“I am thrilled to be appointed as the head coach of the England women’s cricket team,” Edwards said. “Leading England as captain was my life for 10 years, and I am passionate about this team and our legacy. We have a talented group of players, and I am excited to work with them and drive us to success.”
Edwards’ appointment was welcomed by ECB Director of Women’s Cricket Clare Connor, who described her as a “proven winner” with the experience and expertise to lead the team to success.
“Charlotte was the outstanding candidate for the job, and we are delighted to have her on board,” Connor said. “She has a deep knowledge of the game, both in England and around the world, and she understands the importance of creating an environment that is both challenging and supportive.”
Edwards will lead England in home white-ball series against West Indies and India this summer, building up to the 50-over World Cup in India in October.