London: English spinner Danielle Hazell, who recently announced her retirement from international cricket, has been appointed head coach of Yorkshire Diamonds County Cricket Club.
The 30-year-old will take over the position with immediate effect so that she can be a part of Diamonds’ squad selection process ahead of the 2019 Kia Super League.
Hazell, who has spent around 10 years with the club, expressed delight over coming back to her “second home” and now she is looking forward to have some good experience with the team.
“There has been a lot of change for me over the last few months but it’s great to have a new challenge ahead. I’m very much looking forward to getting started. I’ve spent many years here at Yorkshire, but have been away at Lancashire for the last year or so, so it’s nice to come back with a completely different challenge in mind. I’m very happy with my decision to retire from the sport, I’m comfortable with it and I’m very much looking forward to what comes next,” Yorkshire Cricket Club website quoted Hazell, as saying.
“I’ve been around the club for nearly 10 years, so I’m almost honorary Yorkshire. I’ve enjoyed my time here and Yorkshire is like my second home. It’s time now to put some of the experience I’ve gained over the years into practice and hopefully we can have a good season,” she added.
Diamonds general manager Jane Hildreth hoped that Hazell will inspire the next generation of cricketers and will prove to be an excellent coach for the club.
“Even from a young age she’s always worn the Yorkshire badge with pride and played with her heart on her sleeve. Having recently retired, she now wants to give something back, become a role model and inspire the next generation. I’m sure she will be an excellent coach for the Diamonds in 2019,” Jane said.
Hazell made her international debut in 2009 and helped her side lift back to back Ashes trophies in 2013 and 2014. She has played a total of 146 international matches in her career and scalped 146 wickets in all the three formats.
[source_without_link]ANI[/source_without_link]