Charlotte Edwards named head coach of Southern Vipers

“I am thrilled and honoured to be named as head coach of the Southern Vipers," Edwards said. "It’s an incredibly exciting time for the women’s game with the introduction of the new Elite Structure Competition. I am looking forward to working with the extremely talented players we have within our region, with our main purpose to develop a successful Southern Vipers culture and future England cricketers."

The trio of Georgia Adams, Tara Norris and Paige Scholfield have all been awarded domestic retainers and will form an integral part of the Vipers squad. All three have represented the Southern Vipers in the now defunct Women's Cricket Super League, and played alongside Edwards, who led them to the title in the inaugural season in 2016.

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Edwards, who led England in over 200 internationals, expressed her excitement at the new opportunity and said she was looking forwards to aiding the development of young players in the region.

“I have been very lucky to be involved with the Southern Vipers since its inception in 2016 and I’m very passionate about the organisation and the region."

"I look forward to working with Adam Carty to continue the success we’ve had previously and help shape the future. This is a wonderful opportunity to be involved at the start of a new professional era for the women’s game and I can’t wait to get started,” she said.

The new tournament structure laid out by the England and Wales Cricket Board earlier this year includes eight regional teams.

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Although domestic cricket is yet to resume - with the men's county season due to begin in August - the ECB are hopeful that the women will be able to play domestic cricket later this year. The structure of the tournaments are yet to be decided.

Meanwhile, Regional Director of Women’s Cricket Adam Carty said he was thrilled to announce Edwards' appointment, adding that her experience of playing international cricket and in overseas leagues would help the region immensely.

“I could not be happier to be able to announce Charlotte as Head Coach of the new Southern Vipers organisation. After writing the blueprint for previous Southern Vipers success as a player, captain and team manager within the KSL, she brings a wealth of experience to the role, not only as a world class player but also a formidable competitor and an outstanding tactician," he said.

"The guidance and support she will bring to the Vipers’ players and support staff will be second to none."