Former Surrey County Cricket Club Community Development Coach, Mark Lane, was last week appointed as the new head coach of the England women’s team, whilst Ebony Rainford-Brent was awarded a full ECB Chance to Shine Central Contract.

Lane took over as acting head coach for the England women’s team in Australia this year and had an immediate impact. The team retained the Ashes and went on to a convincing 3-1 series victory in the one-day series in New Zealand.

Lane played for Hampshire and Surrey 2nd XI teams as well as Berkshire minor counties as a wicketkeeper batsman. He has previously coached the Kenya men’s team and helped build the women’s game in Kenya. With an extensive background in women’s cricket having spent eight years working closely with regional squads in the women’s game. He also coaches England and Berkshire’s top-order bat, Claire Taylor.

On his appointment Lane added: “I’m really pleased to have been offered this position and I’m relishing the opportunity to take up the role.

“I’m delighted to be working with players of the calibre currently within the squad. They are a very talented and enthusiastic group of girls and I feel privileged to be working with them.

“We’re all really looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead over the coming eighteen months – it’s a very exciting time for women’s cricket and I am thrilled to be a part of it. It will also be great to work alongside Clare Connor and Charlotte Edwards in their respective roles.

“I’d like to thank Surrey CCC, in particular Paul Taylor and Sharon Eyers for their support in recent months.”

Lane’s appointment coincides with Ebony Rainford-Brent, a senior Surrey and England women’s cricketer gaining one of eight Chance to Shine Central Contracts on offer with the ECB.

The Cricket Foundation contracts offer the players 25 hours coaching a week and last for eight months of the year. Rainford-Brent has been offered the full 25 hour contract.

To see a full interview with Rainford-Brent, click here.

Add to Del.icio.us Digg it share on Facebook (What is this?)

• Get the England Practice Shorts 07/08, Childs, Red/Navy