'Exciting new chapter' for women's cricket in Cornwall
It comes as the England and Wales Cricket Board launches its brand-new three-tiered structure
Women's Cricket in Cornwall is set to embark on an exciting new chapter.
It comes as the England and Wales Cricket Board launches its brand-new three-tiered structure for the game, which is designed as a way to give players across the country a better chance and more opportunities to break-out in the sport.
This ground-breaking change is said to provide a clear pathway for development and progression.
For the first time, the women’s game is now closer to the structure of the men’s game.
Here in Cornwall, and the side are in Tier Three - or in the semi-pro classification.
That'll be the case for the first four years of the new structure, with this tier split into National, North, and South divisions - the latter of which Cornwall will compete in.
They'll have the opportunity to gain promotion to the National Division—offering further development and exposure for players.
'Incredibly exciting'
Cornwall Women’s Head Coach Jack Thomas welcomed the changes, saying: “It’s incredibly exciting—not just for Cornwall, but for women’s cricket as a whole.
"We have a huge opportunity to put Cornwall on the map for women’s cricket and shape the future of the game in our county. Huge thanks to Kellie and Robin for the tremendous work they've done in keeping the squad together. I’m really looking forward to developing the squad further and progressing under this new tier system.
"With strong numbers in our Women’s and Girls’ softball cricket, and with more teams now playing hardball, we’re seeing great momentum. Hopefully, we can continue to inspire this trend and offer even more opportunities in the hardball format through this new programme.”
Cornwall Cricket’s Managing Director Joe Skinner added: “Going into this new season in the new women’s structure is an exciting opportunity.
"To play against different counties and from different tiers is one we are going to relish. We have had the opportunity to encourage players back into Cornwall colours which is pleasing and positive for us.
"The pathway is now a lot more structured and if you are a player starting out you now have a clear picture of your route into professional women’s cricket.
"It is important to pay tribute to Robin Trethowan and Kellie Williams who have given so much of their time and effort to Women’s Cornwall Cricket over the years. We would also like to wish Jack Thomas and the players all the very best for the 2025 season, go well.”
As part of the new structure, teams will also take part in a national knockout cup, featuring sides from all three tiers.
At Cornwall Cricket, investment over the past few years has seen six players make it onto the squad, through their structured youth and development programmes.
Bosses say it's a clear reflection of the county’s commitment to developing homegrown talent and building a future where young female cricketers can aspire to reach the top levels of the game.
Their first game of the season was a washout last weekend, but they travel to face Cricket East this weekend, hoping to finally get their season underway.