Jon Lewis has officially stepped down as England Women’s head coach, following a comprehensive review into the team’s disappointing 16-0 Ashes whitewash against Australia. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed his departure, marking the end of his tenure that began in November 2022.
End of an Era
Despite overseeing 52 wins in 73 matches, Lewis’s position became untenable after England’s poor performances, including their group-stage exit at the 2024 T20 World Cup and the winless Ashes tour in Australia.
Reflecting on his time, Lewis expressed pride in the team’s progress while acknowledging unfinished business:
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as England Women’s head coach. While I am disappointed not to complete this challenging but rewarding role, I am proud of the progress we’ve made—winning 83% of our games in 2024 and inspiring record-breaking crowds,” Lewis said.
ECB’s Response and Future Plans
Clare Connor, ECB Managing Director of England Women, praised Lewis’s dedication and credited him for creating a positive environment after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Jon has worked tirelessly to develop this young team. Under his leadership, England delivered a thrilling 2023 Ashes series, including eight consecutive ODI series wins. While recent results have been disappointing, we are focused on the future and will appoint a successor soon,” Connor stated.
The ECB is now preparing for a busy cricketing calendar, including home series against West Indies and India, followed by the 50-over World Cup in India and a home T20 World Cup next year.
The Ashes Fallout and Controversy
England’s Ashes defeat exposed cracks within the squad, especially after Lewis’s comments comparing Australia’s outdoor lifestyle to England’s fitness levels sparked criticism. Adding fuel to the fire, former teammate and commentator Alex Hartley publicly suggested that some players were “letting the team down” with their fitness.
Although Lewis defended the squad’s efforts, the ECB’s review has examined both physical and mental aspects of preparation, with player input playing a significant role in the process.
Charlotte Edwards: The Front-Runner to Succeed Lewis
Among potential replacements, Charlotte Edwards emerges as a leading candidate. The former England captain has an impressive coaching résumé, recently guiding the Mumbai Indians to their second WPL title.
Edwards, who previously opted out of applying for the role in 2022, has hinted at her willingness to assist the ECB while keeping the door open for a potential head coach position. Her recent coaching success includes:
- Southern Vipers – Five titles, including two Charlotte Edwards Cup victories.
- Southern Brave – Three Women’s Hundred finals, winning in 2023.
- Sydney Sixers – WBBL finalist in her debut 2022-23 season.
With her recent appointment as Hampshire Women’s head coach under the new domestic structure, Edwards is well-positioned to transition into the national coaching role.
Jon Lewis’s Coaching Legacy
Before leading England Women, Jon Lewis had a distinguished coaching career, including:
- ECB Elite Pace Bowling Coach (2021) – Worked with England Men’s red and white-ball teams.
- Young Lions Head Coach – Developed emerging talent at the ECB.
- Domestic Cricket – Took over 1,200 wickets in a 19-year career with Gloucestershire, Surrey, and Sussex, and represented England in 15 international matches.
While Lewis’s time with England Women ends in disappointment, his impact on the team’s development and white-ball progression will be part of his legacy.
The ECB is expected to provide further updates on the coaching appointment soon as they gear up for a crucial international summer and the 2025 T20 World Cup on home soil.
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