Warwickshire County Cricket Cub has appointed Darren Franklin as Head of Women’s Cricket.

Darren (28) has worked with the Women’s team for three years and the new role will see him continue to work with the senior women’s team but oversee the coaching and development of the girls under 11, 13, 15 and 17 age group teams.

Neil Snowball, Chief Executive, said: “Darren has overseen the great progress made by the women’s team in recent seasons, including our runner-up place in last season’s NatWest Women’s T20.

“We’re committed to developing the women’s game and creating the best environment for our senior team to challenge for silverware. Darren’s appointment as Head of Women’s Cricket forms a key part of realising these ambitions and we hope that, in turn, the team’s performances inspire more women and girls to get involved in the game.”

Darren Franklin, said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with the women’s team for the last three years.

“Our intent for the new season has been underlined by the additions of Jenny Gunn and Anna Lanning to a strong squad, which already boasts England internationals Becky Grundy and Amy Jones and is led by Marie Kelly.

“However, we also have many talented young cricketers coming through the development programme, so it’s a very exciting time to come in to this new role and hopefully support the team in challenging for our first major trophy.”

Birmingham Bears Women will start the NatWest Women’s T20 at home to Nottinghamshire on Sunday 19 June as part of a double header day, which also includes a men’s NatWest T20 Blast game against Lancashire Lightning. The women’s team return to Edgbaston to face Lancashire on Sunday 17 July, which is preceded by the men’s game against Leicestershire Foxes.

For tickets, please click here or call the Ticket Hotline on 0844 847 1902.