The Lancashire women’s cricket team, representing the historic English county of Lancashire, has made a significant move ahead of the 2025 season. Coached by Chris Chambers and captained by Eleanor Threlkeld, the team boasts a wealth of talent, including international stars Kate Cross, Sophie Ecclestone, and Emma Lamb. The recent permanent signing of the experienced left-handed opener, Eve Jones, further strengthens their lineup.
Jones, a seasoned top-order batter, has signed a three-year contract with Lancashire. Her career, which began in 2008 with Shropshire, has seen her represent Staffordshire, Lancashire, and more recently, Central Sparks. Jones played a crucial role in Lancashire’s success in 2017 when they won both the T20 Cup and the County Championship. Her return to Lancashire marks a full circle, as she had also played for Lancashire Thunder in the Kia Super League before moving to Central Sparks in 2020.
In addition to her domestic success, Jones has made her mark in The Hundred, initially representing Birmingham Phoenix before joining Manchester Originals for the 2024 edition. In 2021, she was named the first-ever PCA Women’s Overall Domestic MVP, thanks to her stellar performances in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy, Charlotte Edwards Cup, and The Hundred. She was later voted the overall PCA Player of the Year.
Reflecting on her return, Jones expressed her enthusiasm, “I am very excited to have returned to Lancashire Thunder on a permanent basis, and I am looking forward to entering the new tier one era with this group.”
She added, “It has been brilliant to re-join the group for the final few matches of this season, and after spending time with Manchester Originals already this summer, it feels like I have never been away.”
Jones also praised the club’s support and investment, “From the outside looking in, it is clear to see the support and investment that has gone into the women’s professional setup at the Club, and I am really pleased to have joined the journey for the next three seasons.”
David Thorley, the regional director of women’s cricket, shared his excitement, “We are thrilled to announce Eve as our first permanent signing ahead of the 2025 season and our first since being awarded tier one status.”
He emphasized the value Jones brings to the team, “As I said when she joined us on an initial loan deal, Eve will provide a huge amount of experience to our batting order and also with her leadership skills after playing many seasons as a captain.”
Thorley also noted her familiarity with the team and her recent performance, “She knows the county well, having previously captained Lancashire Women, played for Lancashire Thunder in the KSL, and she really impressed during her time with Manchester Originals.”
He further added, “Eve scored an accomplished half-century with the bat in Southport yesterday, and we are looking forward to seeing her continue her form during the final two matches of the season before starting her three-year contract with Lancashire Thunder.”
Jones’ return is seen as a major boost for Lancashire women’s cricket as they prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the 2025 season and beyond.