Courtney Winfield-Hill, a former dual-sport professional, has been appointed as an assistant coach for the England Women’s cricket team. She will join the squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa and the Women’s Ashes.
Winfield-Hill, 37, has a wealth of experience in both cricket and rugby league. As a player, she represented Queensland Fire and Brisbane Heat in cricket, and Leeds Rhinos in rugby league, leading them to a Grand Final and Challenge Cup double in 2019. She also represented England in rugby league at the 2022 World Cup.
In recent years, Winfield-Hill has transitioned into coaching, holding roles with WBBL side Brisbane Heat, Trent Rockets in the Women’s Hundred, and Northern Diamonds. She has also worked as an assistant coach with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Women’s Premier League and England Women’s A and U19 squads.
Winfield-Hill’s appointment is seen as a positive step for the England Women’s team, as she brings a fresh perspective and a wealth of knowledge to the coaching staff.
“I am really proud to be a part of the set-up,” Winfield-Hill said. “Since working with England teams, I have been made to feel nothing but welcomed and feel the ECB have invested in developing me as a coach.”
“The development of the domestic game over the last five years has been brilliant to watch and I have taken a lot from recent involvements with the England A, development games and the Ireland tour. South Africa and the Ashes are two exciting series and I am really looking forward to linking up and working with the group.”
Jonathan Finch, Director of England Women’s Cricket, praised Winfield-Hill’s appointment, saying: “Courtney has played such an important role in developing the up-and-coming players on our international pathway and adds tremendous value in any environment she is part of.”
“She will bring a different outlook on the game into the coaching team which will ensure the support we provide to players continually moves forward in what will be an exciting period for the senior team.”
