Essex Women have bolstered their coaching staff with some familiar faces from the club’s setup, bringing in Nick Browne as assistant coach and batting lead just months after he hung up his boots.
The 34-year-old opener, who stepped away from the game at the close of the 2025 County Championship, racked up close to 10,000 runs in all formats during his career. That haul included 22 centuries, with his highest score of 255 coming against Derbyshire back in 2016.
Browne’s move comes hot on the heels of Stephen Parry’s appointment as head coach last week—the former left-arm spinner stepping in after Andy Tennant left earlier this year. Rounding out the changes is Cath Dalton, the ex-academy coach, who’s now on board as seam-bowling lead. It’s all part of a refresh following a tough debut season in Tier 1 for the women’s side.
“I’m buzzing about this new chapter,” Browne said. “I got a taste working with Essex Women over the summer and loved it, so jumping in full-time feels like a dream. After retiring, I knew coaching was my next move—I want to pass on what I’ve picked up over the years.
“The club putting their faith in me means a lot, and huge thanks to everyone involved. We’ve got a cracking group of talented players here, and I’m keen to help them hit their stride, both now and down the line.”
Essex director of cricket Chris Silverwood added, “Nick’s the ideal man for this job as assistant coach and batting lead. We’re thrilled he’s on board.
“He brought real class and commitment throughout his playing days with Essex. That cool-headed leadership, plus his sharp game sense, makes him perfect for mentoring our women. Technically and mentally, he’ll push them forward. Pair him with Stephen Parry, and I reckon we’ll see this squad climb to exciting new levels.”
Essex endured a difficult summer in 2025. In the Women’s One Day Cup, they finished at the bottom of the table in eighth place, managing just two wins from fourteen matches and suffering 10 defeats. Their T20 Blast campaign offered little respite, with the side securing only four wins from 14 games and ending the competition in seventh.
In response to the disappointing season, the club has initiated sweeping structural changes. The appointment of Browne as assistant and batting coach signals a renewed commitment to rebuilding form and identity. Essex will be hoping that his experience and fresh perspective can help reignite the team’s competitive edge and restore their ambitions of becoming a dominant force once again.
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