A New Chapter for Warwickshire
Mark Robinson, who served as Warwickshire’s first-team coach since early 2021, has stepped down from his role following a significant restructure of the club’s coaching and support staff. Robinson’s tenure was marked by a remarkable achievement in his first season when Warwickshire clinched the County Championship title. However, the club’s performance declined in subsequent years, finishing eighth in 2022 and seventh last season, with just one win in the Championship. They also faced repeated setbacks in the Blast, failing to advance beyond the quarter-final stage for four consecutive seasons. Despite these challenges, Robinson’s contributions, including his pivotal role in the 2021 Championship win, will not be forgotten.
Reflecting on Recent Disappointment
Warwickshire’s chief executive, Stuart Cain, acknowledged the club’s disappointment with the recent performance of the men’s teams. However, Cain emphasized that the decision to restructure was not a kneejerk reaction but a thoughtful and strategic move. The club conducted a high-performance review, taking into account the significant changes in the cricket landscape, such as the formation of a professional women’s team and the continued integration of Birmingham Phoenix. Cain stated, "It’s no secret we’ve been disappointed in our men’s performance in recent years. We also wanted to proactively address the biggest changes the game has seen in a decade with the long-overdue formation of a professional Bears Women’s team and the integration of Birmingham Phoenix into our elite set-up."
A Fresh Leadership Team
To steer the club towards a new era of success, Warwickshire has appointed former Bears batter Ian Westwood as the new first-team coach. Westwood, a former club captain and 2nd XI coach, brings a deep understanding of Warwickshire’s history, culture, and DNA. Known for his competitiveness and structured approach, he is well-equipped to lead both the red-ball and white-ball formats. Cain praised Westwood, saying, "Ian Westwood is a Bear through-and-through. He understands how to win red-ball matches as well as the demands of white ball, having most recently coached at Sharjah Warriors in the ILT20." In addition, Tony Frost has been named head of cricket operations, succeeding the retiring Keith Cook, who has dedicated over 50 years to the club. Simon Kerrigan will take on the role of 2nd XI coach and provide spin bowling support, while Stuart Barnes continues as the bowling coach. The club is currently searching for a new batting coach to complete the coaching team.
Recognizing Robinson’s Contributions
Mark Robinson, who has previously coached England Women and Sussex, highlighted the 2021 Championship success and the recent elevation of Jacob Bethell and Dan Mousley to full England duty as key highlights of his time at Warwickshire. He expressed his pride in overseeing the transformation of the T20 team from a struggling qualifier to a group leader. Robinson also acknowledged the disappointment of losing the quarter-final last year but remained optimistic about the team’s future. "Losing the quarter-final last year hurt badly but I’m sure it won’t be long before the boys take that next step to silverware," he said. His words of gratitude to the supporters underscore his appreciation for the club and its fans. "Lastly, thank you to the supporters who are the most important part of the club for your support. I know it will only be a matter of time before you get the success you deserve."
A Vision for the Future
The new coaching structure is designed to enhance the club’s capabilities and address the challenges of managing multiple teams across different formats. Cain explained, "We’re confident this new structure gives us the skills, resources, and focus needed for the men’s and women’s teams to put themselves in a position to win domestic tournaments, as well as develop local talent from the many diverse communities that surround Edgbaston." The appointment of Laura Macleod as head of high performance for Bears Women and Ali Maiden as head coach of both Bears Women and Birmingham Phoenix reflects the club’s commitment to women’s cricket and the integration of the Phoenix team. With Warwickshire retaining a 51% majority ownership of Birmingham Phoenix, this integration is expected to strengthen the club’s overall performance and community engagement.
New Developments at Edgbaston
In a significant development, Warwickshire has received planning permission from Birmingham City Council for a £44 million redevelopment at Edgbaston. This ambitious project, set to begin in September and be completed by 2027, will transform the northwest side of the ground. The existing Raglan and Priory Stands will be redesigned to include a 146-bed Radisson Red hotel, complete with a rooftop terrace, pitch-view rooms with balconies, and rooms that can be converted into hospitality boxes during games. The new stand will also feature a concourse with enhanced food and drink options and improved facilities for disabled spectators. Craig Flindall, Edgbaston’s strategy director, expressed gratitude for the approval and shared the club’s vision. "We’re grateful to Birmingham City Council for approving the plans and for sharing our vision to bring increased economic and social benefits to the region through international sport." The redevelopment aims to create a mixed-use destination that combines elite sport, conferencing, events, and residential and hotel accommodation, alongside community facilities that will improve education, employment, and social cohesion in the area.
