Former Gloucestershire cricketer Tom Smith has been named the spin-bowling coach for England Women as they prepare for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. The 38-year-old retired last summer after a successful county career, where he was instrumental in Gloucestershire winning the 2015 Royal London Cup and the 2024 T20 Blast. He also ranks as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the T20 Blast’s history.
Post-retirement, Smith moved into coaching effectively. Near the end of his playing time, he took on a player-coach role and later became a full-time assistant coach with Gloucestershire. Additionally, he assisted Ali Maiden with the women’s coaching team at Birmingham Phoenix during The Hundred last year.
In his new position, Smith will be part of a structured coaching team headed by Charlotte Edwards. He will collaborate with assistant coach Luke Williams, batting coach Alex Gidman, bowling coach Chris Liddle, and wicketkeeping/fielding coach Nick Wilton. Smith is expected to enhance England’s spin attack, closely working with key players like Sophie Ecclestone, Sarah Glenn, Charlie Dean, and Linsey Smith.
“I’m delighted Tom is joining us. He is highly respected in the game and brings great experience as a white-ball bowler. Our spin bowlers will gain significantly from his knowledge,” said Edwards, as reported by ESPNcricinfo.
Jon Lewis, Gloucestershire’s director of Cricket and Edwards’ predecessor, expressed disappointment over losing Tom just before the new season but took pride in contributing to Smith’s coaching development during his time at the club.
Smith will leave Gloucestershire after their second County Championship match against Durham next Friday. Shane Jurgensen, affiliated with Wellington Firebirds, will step in as a temporary replacement for the first part of the season, while the club looks for a permanent coach.
Meanwhile, England Women have a packed schedule leading up to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, starting on June 12. They will face New Zealand Women, India Women, and Ireland Women in bilateral series to prepare for the home World Cup.
“I want to thank all the players, staff, and supporters for the incredible support my family and I have received during my time at Gloucestershire. It has been a special journey. The warmth from the club during tough moments has meant a lot to us, something we will always remember,” said Smith.
“Coaching England Women is an amazing opportunity, and I’m excited to begin. This summer is shaping up to be fantastic, with a home World Cup and a T20 series against India. I’ll also be returning to Bristol for the India T20 match on May 30, which will be a memorable experience. I appreciate Jon Lewis, Mark Alleyne, and everyone at Gloucestershire for their support during this transition. I wish the players, staff, and supporters all the best for the summer and beyond,” he added.