England Women's cricket revolution: Counties to take helm in 2025 shake-up

England Women’s cricket: Get ready for a seismic shift in English women’s cricket! The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has unveiled a bold new plan that will see domestic teams owned and operated by the first-class counties, starting in the 2025 season.

This significant shake-up marks the third major change for the women’s game in just eight years, replacing the current system of eight independent regional teams. But why the change? The ECB believes it’s time to unlock the full potential of women’s cricket, boosting visibility, fanbase, and commercial appeal.

The current model, while credited with raising performance standards, hasn’t driven commercial growth. Sparse attendance at regional matches highlighted the need for a new approach. So, the ECB is handing the baton to the established counties, hoping they can leverage their existing infrastructure and fanbase to cultivate a thriving women’s game.

Eighteen first-class counties and the MCC have until March 10th to submit proposals to host one of the eight professional women’s teams. Bids will be assessed based on their ability to deliver high-quality cricket, expand the fanbase, and demonstrate sound financial planning and ambition.

The ECB will invest £1.3 million annually in each team until 2028, but counties are expected to generate their own revenue to ensure long-term sustainability. ECB CEO Richard Gould emphasized the vision: “We want women’s cricket to be a fully fledged, sustainable, commercial, professional game.”

This transformation extends beyond the top tier. A two-tiered development system, with amateur teams also linked to counties, will provide a pathway for aspiring players. Importantly, promotion and relegation are on hold until at least 2029, allowing teams to focus on growth and stability.

Inspiration for England Women’s cricket?

The inspiration for this overhaul in England Women’s cricket draws from several sources. The success of double-headers in The Hundred, where women’s and men’s matches are played consecutively, highlights the potential for shared branding and increased viewership. Additionally, the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket’s report exposed concerning issues of marginalization and sexism within the game.

“This is fundamentally a growth plan for cricket,” says Beth Barrett-Wild, ECB director of the women’s professional game. “We want to ensure the game has a relevant and enduring future. By making this transition, we have an opportunity to galvanize cultural change through the game.”

While some counties voice concerns about the financial implications, others like Essex and Durham are enthusiastic. Surrey and Sussex have already declared their intention to bid. The ECB’s evaluation panel will scrutinize each proposal, seeking commitment and concrete plans for investment and development.

With the 2025 season approaching, anticipation grows. Will this groundbreaking transformation usher in a golden age for women’s cricket? The counties hold the key, and their bids promise to be the opening chapter in this exciting new story.