Bears turn to former World Cup winner to launch era
WARWICKSHIRE have appointed former England Women’s head coach Mark Robinson as their new first-team coach.
The 54-year-old enjoyed great success on the international scene with England, winning the World Cup in 2017 following a memorable ninerun victory over India in the final at Lord’s, and also reaching the final of the T20 World Cup in the West Indies the following year.
Prior to his spell with England Women, the former Yorkshire seamer toured with England Lions and also coached Sussex for a decade where they won two County Championships (2006 and 2007), in addition to the OneDay Cup (2006), T20 Blast (2009) and Pro40 League (2008 and 2009). “It’s a very exciting time to be taking over at Warwickshire in this men’s first-team coach role,’’ said Robinson. “It is a county I have always admired for doing things in the right way and which has always produced teams that are resilient and difficult to beat.
“The men’s team has gone through a transition over the last few years, but that period is now coming to an end.
“We now have a young squad, which is led superbly by a young captain in Will Rhodes, and it is a great opportunity for this team to create another memorable era for the Bears.”
Warwickshire director of cricket Paul Farbrace added: “Mark boasts great experience of developing a winning culture and in developing cricketers to reach their potential in both the county and international game.
“He has an outstanding reputation as a coach and for winning the biggest trophies in the game, and we’re delighted to secure him as our new men’s firstteam coach.”
After Jim Troughton left at the end of the 2020 season, the Bears became the first English county to implement the Rooney Rule in their recruitment process before deciding Robinson was the best person for the job.
Stuart
Cain, the Bears’ chief executive, said: “During interview it was clear Mark would work well with Paul Farbrace, Will Rhodes and the wider coaching staff.
“So I think we’ve assembled a group of winners that can work with our squad as we emerge from a period of transition and build a new Bears dynasty.
“I was impressed with Mark’s vision of an inclusive club. As we
build towards the Commonwealth Games, his experience in women’s cricket is invaluable.
“He also has strong views on building links with the African-Caribbean and Asian communities within the city to make sure we’re nurturing young talent and that our squad represents those who we serve.” Warwickshire get the championship season under way against Derbshire at Edgbaston on April 8.