Trent Woodhill steps aside as Melbourne Stars head coach

Trent Woodhill has stepped aside from his role as the head coach of Melbourne Stars for personal reasons, the club announced on Thursday (May 13). Woodhill took charge of the side during WBBL06 and led them to the final of the competition where they went down to Sydney Thunder.



“I’m disappointed to have to relinquish my role with the Stars after such a strong WBBL season together. While it’s a difficult decision to make, it’s also important I balance my cricket roles with time with family, “ Woodhill said.



Stars, who finished at the bottom during WBBL05 with only two wins, underwent a makeover during season six of the T20 franchise league and had a great run - cantering into the final after finishing on top during the group stages with eight wins and only three losses.



Woodhill, who has more than a decade of experience coaching at various levels, previously served as the assistant coach of the New Zealand men’s side in 2010, then worked as an assistant and fielding consultant at Cricket NSW and had various stints with Indian Premier League (IPL) sides before taking up a job as a high-performance consultant with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).



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“I’d particularly like to thank our fantastic group of players and support staff, who are very well placed to be successful this season. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my short time leading the WBBL squad and my broader long-term in involvement with the Melbourne Stars. I wish everyone at the club the best for the season later this year,” he added.



Nick Cummins, general manager of Melbourne Stars, lauded Woodhill for his efforts with the Stars side and added that him leaving will be a big loss to the club. Cummins also wished him good luck in all his future endeavours.



“I’d like to thank Trent for his leadership and support of our squad, particularly in the WBBL hub in Sydney. His energy and approach to that challenge was one of the key reasons we adapted to the circumstances so well, which enhanced our performances on the field,” Cummins said.



The club statement also said that the Stars will soon start the recruitment process for the job left vacant by Woodhill.