MANCHESTER — Lancashire Cricket is delighted to announce that Head Coach Chris Read has signed a new two-year contract extension, a deal that will see him remain at the helm of the Lancashire Women's team until at least the conclusion of the 2027 season.
The new agreement represents a significant vote of confidence in Read's leadership and the tangible progress the team has made under his guidance since his appointment in 2022. Having successfully navigated the team through a period of transition and development, this extended commitment provides crucial stability and a clear long-term vision for the women's programme at Emirates Old Trafford.
Building a Foundation for Success
Since taking charge, Read, the former England wicket-keeper batter, has been instrumental in reshaping the squad's identity and competitive edge. His focus has been on fostering a professional environment, developing homegrown talent from the regional pathway, and integrating experienced players to create a balanced and formidable side. The 2024 season served as a powerful testament to this strategy.
Under Read's stewardship, the team enjoyed a highly successful campaign across multiple formats, showcasing their growing prowess and consistency. The Thunder, Lancashire's professional women's team, reached the semi-finals of the Charlotte Edwards Cup T20 competition and secured a commendable fourth-place finish in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, narrowly missing out on another knockout stage appearance.
The team's on-field success in 2024 was built on a foundation of individual player development, a key pillar of Read's coaching philosophy. Several players made significant strides, with the coach's ability to nurture talent becoming increasingly evident. Key achievements from the season included:
- A first-ever senior call-up for all-rounder Phoebe Graham to an England IT20 squad.
- The emergence of young batter Liberty Heap as a consistent and dynamic top-order force.
- The continued excellence of England internationals Sophie Ecclestone and Kate Cross within the squad.
Reflecting on his decision to extend his tenure, Chris Read expressed his enthusiasm for the project and the direction the team is heading. "I'm absolutely thrilled to be extending my time with Lancashire Cricket," Read said. "We've made significant strides over the last couple of years, and there's a real sense that we are building something special here."
He continued, emphasizing the collective effort and potential he sees within the group: "The commitment from the players and the support staff has been first-class, and we have a fantastic blend of experienced internationals and exciting young talent coming through our regional system. I'm incredibly excited about what we can achieve together in the coming years."
Club Leadership Backs the Vision
The contract extension was met with strong approval from the club's leadership, who highlighted Read's impact both on and off the field. Director of Cricket Performance, Mark Chilton, was unequivocal in his praise, pointing to the cultural and performance-based improvements that have become hallmarks of Read's tenure. The alignment between the women's programme and the club's overarching goals has never been stronger.
In a statement, Chilton said, "We are delighted that Chris has committed his future to Lancashire Cricket. He has done an outstanding job in leading our women's programme, and the progression of the team and individual players under his leadership has been clear for everyone to see."
Chilton further elaborated on the strategic importance of securing Read for the long term, stating, "Chris shares our ambition for the women's game in Lancashire, and this new contract provides stability and a clear direction as we look to take the next step and challenge for trophies consistently."
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season and Beyond
With the coaching future secured, attention now turns to the continued development of the squad. The extended contract allows Read and his staff to implement longer-term strategies, focusing not only on immediate results but also on sustained success. The integration of academy products into the senior setup is expected to remain a key focus, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for years to come.
The upcoming 2025 season presents a new set of challenges and opportunities. The primary objectives will be to convert the near-misses of 2024 into silverware and to mount a serious title challenge in both the 50-over and T20 competitions. The stability provided by Read's new deal is seen as a critical component in achieving these ambitious goals.
A Broader Impact on the Women's Game
Beyond the boundary, Read's work has helped elevate the profile of the women's game within the Lancashire region. Increased attendance at home fixtures and growing engagement with the community have run parallel to the team's on-field performances. This holistic approach to building the women's programme is a core part of the club's strategy, and Read has been a central figure in its execution.
The commitment to Read until 2027 sends a powerful message about Lancashire Cricket's dedication to its women's team. It underscores a belief that investment in leadership and a long-term vision is the pathway to achieving excellence. For the players, it provides a known and trusted environment in which to develop their skills and pursue their ambitions.
As the landscape of women's domestic cricket in England and Wales continues to evolve, Lancashire, with Chris Read at the wheel, has positioned itself as a serious contender. The foundations are firmly in place, the leadership is secured, and the ambition is clear. The next chapter for Lancashire Women, under the continued guidance of Chris Read, promises to be an exciting one.