Hampshire Women confirm Prichard as new head coach

Hampshire Women have appointed former Essex batter Paul Prichard as their new head coach.

The 60-year-old has agreed a two-year-deal and takes the role permanently after being in charge on an interim basis last season.

In April, Prichard took over from Charlotte Edwards, who departed the county to become England Women's head coach.

He led the side to the final of the One-Day Cup as Hampshire won nine out of their 14 group matches to top the table.

"It's a privilege to lead the group for another two years," Prichard said after signing his new deal.

During his playing days, Prichard was best known for his time at Essex, where he played from 1982-2001.

He played more than 300 first-class games, scoring more than 16,000 runs, and won the County Championship four times.

"Paul did an excellent job last summer," Adam Carty, regional director of women's cricket, added.

"He's been an important part of the group since he joined the women's team in 2022 as a batting coach and we have full confidence that he will get the best out of the squad as we aim for silverware over the coming seasons."