Charlotte Edwards has been named the new head coach of the England women’s cricket team. The former England captain takes over from Jon Lewis, who was dismissed following a disappointing 16-0 Ashes defeat in Australia earlier this year, where England lost all seven games during the tour.
Edwards, who captained England to both the 2009 50-over World Cup and T20 World Cup titles, also led the team to three Ashes series victories during her 10 years as captain from 2006 to 2016.
At 45 years old, Edwards has thrived as a coach, achieving significant success with the Mumbai Indians in the Women’s Premier League in 2023 and 2025 and winning The Hundred with Southern Brave two years ago. She also secured multiple Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy titles and Charlotte Edwards Cup victories while coaching the Southern Vipers.
In addition to her coaching role, England now faces the challenge of appointing a new captain following Heather Knight’s removal after the recent Ashes series. Knight, who took over from Edwards as skipper in 2016 and led the team to a home World Cup victory the following year, has stepped down from the role.
Edwards Excited for Upcoming Challenges
Edwards expressed her enthusiasm about her new role, stating: “I am thrilled to be part of the leadership of the team again. I cannot wait to guide this group towards success.” She emphasized the team’s potential and her eagerness to develop each player’s skills while working towards major tournaments, including the ICC Women’s World Cup in India this autumn and a home ICC Women’s T20 World Cup next summer. “The prospect of the first Olympics for women’s cricket in LA 2028 is also incredibly exciting,” she added.
ECB Management Optimistic About Edwards
The managing director of England women’s cricket, Clare Connor, highlighted Edwards as the top candidate for the coaching position. “Her extensive experience, passion, and expertise make her the perfect leader for this team. Her successful coaching record and deep understanding of the game will help cultivate a supportive environment for our players,” she stated.
Looking Ahead: Leadership and Fixtures
Speculation about who will succeed Knight as captain includes vice-captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and rising stars like Charlie Dean and Sophie Ecclestone. England will kick off their home summer series with a T20 series against West Indies starting May 21, followed by a series against India in June and July. The team is also preparing for the ICC Women’s World Cup in India this autumn and the Women’s T20 World Cup in England in 2026.
Summer Fixtures for England Women
T20 International Series vs. West Indies (May)
- First T20: May 21
- Second T20: May 23
- Third T20: May 26
ODI Series vs. West Indies (May-June)
- First ODI: May 30
- Second ODI: June 4
- Third ODI: June 7
T20 International Series vs. India (June-July)
- First T20: June 28
- Second T20: July 1
- Third T20: July 4
- Fourth T20: July 9
- Fifth T20: July 12
ODI Series vs. India (July)
- First ODI: July 16
- Second ODI: July 19
- Third ODI: July 22
