Former international cricketer to coach Kent Women
Monday 17th December 2018
Former Zimbabwean international cricketer Mark Dekker has been appointed as the new lead coach of Kent Women going into the 2019 season.
The 49 year-old played 14 Tests and 23 One Day Internationals for Zimbabwe in the 1990s and was the first batsman in Zimbabwe’s cricketing history to carry his bat through a Test Innings.
The former left-handed batsman will begin his new role when the Kent Women’s squad starts its winter training schedule in January.
After retiring from professional cricket, Dekker worked at Tonbridge School as an Academy Cricket Coach whilst coaching one of our County Age Group Squads. He then joined Kent Cricket in April 2017 as Community Cricket Officer leading the representative pathways for boys cricket across the County (from area to county age group squads).
Speaking about his new role, Dekker said: “I feel privileged to be involved with the Kent Women’s squad from next season.
“Kent Women have a fantastic history of success on the field, and also in producing players that go on to represent England. I’m looking forward to the coming season, as the game progresses ever further into exciting times.”
Lydia Greenway, outgoing Kent Women’s player-coach after the 2018 season, will also be providing support in an advisory role and covering some match day duties which will be an invaluable resource for the team. Whilst taking on this role, Dekker will continue his current role overseeing the boys pathway, too.
Kent Cricket’s Director of Cricket, Paul Downton, said: “I am delighted Mark has taken on the role of Head Coach for the Kent Women’s team for the 2019 season.
“His enthusiasm, innovation and his significant amount of cricketing experience will be invaluable to the team as we await news of any ECB restructuring of the women’s county game for 2020 and beyond.”
Enjoy entry to every Kent Women’s home fixture in 2019 with any Kent Cricket membership. Click here for more information.
