Former England wicketkeeper Sarah Taylor is set to make history by taking on the role of fielding coach for the men's national side during next month's Test series against New Zealand. The 36-year-old, who was part of the victorious 2017 Women's World Cup team, has been working within the England and Wales Cricket Board's coaching setup for the past two years.
Groundbreaking Appointment
Taylor's appointment marks a watershed moment for English cricket, as she becomes the most senior female coach ever assigned to a major England men's team. She previously served as an assistant coach for the England Lions in Australia this winter under Andrew Flintoff, where her work earned high praise from the management.
Rob Key, managing director of men's cricket, expressed his enthusiasm: "She's done a lot of work with the Lions. We've been thoroughly, unbelievably impressed with her and the way that she goes about her business. I just think she's one of the best in the business at what she does."
Breaking Barriers
Taylor has a history of breaking down barriers. In 2015, she became the first woman to play first-grade cricket in Australia, keeping wicket for Northern Districts. The legendary Adam Gilchrist once called her "the best wicketkeeper in the world," without reference to gender. She joined Sussex's coaching staff in 2021 and was later drafted by Hundred franchise Manchester Originals.
In her new role, Taylor will work with wicketkeepers Jamie Smith and James Rew during the three-match series against the Black Caps. She replaces Carl Hopkinson, who is currently involved with Mumbai Indians at the Indian Premier League.
Wider Context
Taylor's appointment is part of a broader trend of women taking on coaching roles in men's professional sports. In football, FA chief executive Mark Bullingham has spoken positively about the possibility of Lionesses boss Sarina Wiegman managing the England men's team. Marie-Louise Eta was named interim head coach of Bundesliga club Union Berlin in April, while Hannah Dingley briefly served as caretaker manager of Forest Green in 2023. In tennis, Andy Murray employed Amelie Mauresmo as his coach from 2014 to 2016, becoming the first elite male player to do so.
Taylor's former England teammate Alex Hartley has worked as spin coach for Multan Sultans in the Pakistan Super League, and Ireland's Cath Dalton has served as fast bowling coach in the same competition.
Key added: "She's been outstanding, and she's worked a lot with Andrew Flintoff and performance director Ed Barney. They can't speak highly enough of her. So from what we can see, she's one of the best in the business."
