In a significant move for women’s cricket in England, Ali Maiden, who played a crucial role as England’s assistant coach during their 2017 ODI World Cup victory, has been appointed as the first head coach of Bears Women. Maiden will transition from his current role with Yorkshire’s men’s team at the end of the season to join the Bears, based at Edgbaston, starting November 1, 2024.
Maiden’s coaching career has predominantly been in the men’s game in recent years. However, his experience with women’s cricket is extensive, having been part of England’s coaching staff during their 2017 World Cup triumph. Most recently, he served as an assistant coach to Ashley Noffke when London Spirit clinched the title in The Hundred’s women’s competition this year.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new role, Maiden stated, “I’m hugely excited to be joining Bears Women at the start. I’ve spoken to several people at the club and it’s clear they’re passionate about women’s cricket, forming a successful side, and encouraging more women and girls into the sport. I’ve had various coaching and head coach roles and have been looking for an opportunity to get back into women’s cricket.”
The Bears Women, a team run by Warwickshire, are set to be one of the eight ‘Tier 1’ sides competing in England’s new domestic structure for women’s cricket from 2025. The restructuring aims to strengthen the competitive landscape of women’s cricket in England, offering a robust platform for talent development. Laura MacLeod, who will serve as the director of cricket, has already overseen the signings of five key players: Emily Arlott, Hannah Baker, Chloe Brewer, Katie George, and Charis Pavely.
Maiden’s appointment is expected to bring a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the Bears as they prepare for the upcoming season. His track record in both men’s and women’s cricket, coupled with his recent success with London Spirit, positions him as a highly capable leader for the team.
Sanjay Manjrekar Questions Rohit, Kohli, and Bumrah’s Absence from Duleep Trophy
Colin Graves, Chair of Yorkshire CCC, commented on Maiden’s departure: “Everyone at the club wishes Ali all the best in his future career and thanks him for his contribution to Yorkshire CCC over the last three seasons.” Maiden has been with Yorkshire since 2021, where he has been instrumental in working closely with the team’s batters, helping to develop their skills and improve their performances.
As Maiden prepares to take on this new challenge, his departure marks the end of a successful tenure at Yorkshire, but his arrival at the Bears Women signals a promising new chapter in his coaching career and for the team he will lead. With the 2025 season on the horizon, Maiden’s expertise and leadership are expected to be key in building a competitive and successful side that can make a strong impact in England’s evolving women’s cricket landscape.
Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Telegram, and Instagram
