Tom Smith Joins England Women's Coaching Staff Ahead of T20 World Cup

Tom Smith, a former Gloucestershire spinner, has been appointed as the spin-bowling coach for England Women as they prepare for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. With a successful playing career and coaching experience, Smith is set to enhance the team's spin bowling capabilities. He will work alongside a skilled coaching staff and is excited about the upcoming international summer, which includes a series against New Zealand and India. Smith reflects on his time at Gloucestershire with gratitude and looks forward to this new opportunity.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 2, 2026, 17:09 IST

New Appointment for England Women

The England Women's cricket team has announced the hiring of Tom Smith, a former left-arm spinner from Gloucestershire, as their spin-bowling coach in preparation for the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup. Smith, who hung up his boots last summer, transitioned into a player-coach role towards the end of his playing career and has since been a full-time assistant coach at Gloucestershire.

Smith's Experience and Coaching Team

Smith boasts an impressive track record, having secured the Royal London Cup in 2015 and the T20 Blast title in 2024. He ranks as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the history of the T20 Blast. In his new role, he will collaborate with a talented coaching team, including Luke Williams (assistant coach), Alex Gidman (batting coach), Chris Liddle (bowling coach), Nick Wilton (wicketkeeping and fielding coach), and head coach Charlotte Edwards.

Charlotte Edwards on Smith's Role

Charlotte Edwards expressed her enthusiasm about Smith's addition to the team, stating, "I’m thrilled to have Tom on board. He is highly regarded in the cricket community and brings a wealth of experience as a white-ball bowler. His insights will be invaluable to our spin bowlers, enhancing their skills significantly."

Upcoming International Schedule

Smith will join the England Women’s squad as they gear up for a busy international summer. The season kicks off with a home white-ball series against New Zealand, followed by a much-anticipated T20 series against India. A highlight of this series will be the match at the Seat Unique Stadium on May 30. Additionally, the summer will feature the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, which will take place across England, including six matches in Bristol.

Smith Reflects on His Transition

In his farewell message to Gloucestershire, Smith expressed gratitude to the players, staff, and supporters for their unwavering support during his tenure. He remarked, "It has been a remarkable journey, and the encouragement from everyone at the club has been unforgettable. Coaching England Women is an incredible opportunity, and I am eager to begin this new chapter. I look forward to returning to Bristol for the T20 match against India on May 30, which will be a memorable experience." He also thanked Jon Lewis, Mark Alleyne, and the Gloucestershire team for their understanding during this transition.