Charlotte Edwards Returns to Lead England Women's Cricket Team
England Women’s Cricket announced on Tuesday, April 1st, the appointment of former captain Charlotte Edwards as the new Head Coach. This marks a significant change for the team following Jon Lewis’s resignation in the wake of a comprehensive defeat against Australia in the recent Ashes series. Edwards, a celebrated figure in English cricket, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the role.
Edwards' Vision and Immediate Challenges
“I am so delighted to once again be part of the leadership of the England Women’s cricket team, and I cannot wait to take this team forward and drive us to success,” Edwards stated upon her appointment. She emphasized her passion for the team and its legacy, expressing excitement about working with the players and enhancing their individual and collective abilities.
The immediate focus for Edwards and the team includes two home summer series followed by the ICC Women’s World Cup in India this autumn. Looking further ahead, the team will also prepare for the inaugural women’s cricket tournament at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics – a landmark event for the sport.
A Distinguished Coaching Career
While previously considered for the role in 2022 and opting out at the time, Edwards’ strong coaching credentials have ultimately secured her appointment. Her coaching journey began in late 2017 as an assistant coach with the Adelaide Strikers, a position she held for five years. She subsequently took charge of the Southern Vipers, guiding them to victory in the inaugural Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy in 2020.
Her leadership extended to the Southern Brave, who reached successive finals in The Hundred in 2021 and 2022. More recently, Edwards has enjoyed considerable success as the head coach of the Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Premier League, securing two titles in three seasons, most recently in 2025. She will now relinquish her role with Hampshire Women following a restructuring of domestic women’s cricket.
Reaction and Expectations
Clare Connor, Managing Director of England Women's cricket, expressed the board's enthusiasm for Edwards' appointment. “When we drew up the criteria for the job it became apparent very quickly that Charlotte was the outstanding candidate,” Connor commented. She highlighted Edwards' experience, passion, and expertise, as well as her proven ability to achieve results in diverse environments.
- Experience: A wealth of knowledge gained from playing and coaching at the highest levels.
- Proven Track Record: Consistent success as a player and coach.
- Global Perspective: A deep understanding of the game both domestically and internationally.
- Leadership Style: Ability to foster a challenging yet supportive environment.
Key Dates & Upcoming Fixtures
- First Game: May 21st, against West Indies at Canterbury.
- ICC Women's World Cup: Autumn (Location: India)
- ICC Women's T20 World Cup: Summer 2026 (Location: England)
- Los Angeles 2028 Olympics: Inaugural Women's Cricket Tournament
Edwards officially joins the ECB from her role with Hampshire and is poised to lead the England Women's team into a new era of competition and growth.