In this new role, alongside the Regional Director of Women’s Cricket, Rob will design and deliver the Lightning Cricket programme, providing long-term direction to the development of the sport within the region.

He will also work closely with partner counties - Leicestershire County Cricket Club, Derbyshire County Cricket Club, Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club and Lincolnshire County Cricket Club – ensuring  talent pathways through the county age groups and Lightning Cricket academy squad are robust and aligned.

Rob’s appointment follows Loughborough University’s selection by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) as the East Midlands Regional Host of its new elite women’s cricket domestic structure.

“This is a great opportunity to develop elite Women’s cricket in the East Midlands at a time when the sport is gaining real momentum globally,” commented Rob.

“When I was Head Coach of Loughborough Lightning in the Kia Super League, I was focused on developing players to perform in an elite environment. We enjoyed great success in that competition and building a programme, culture and team identity that is as strong as that one, is going to be key.

“We have the opportunity to train and play in a world-class environment and I’m looking forward to leading and driving forward cricket within the region.”

Taylor previously held the position of Head Coach of the Women’s MCCU programme at the University and as Head Coach of the Loughborough Lightning side that competed in the Kia Super League, reaching back-to-back Finals Day.

Ian Read, Regional Director of Women’s Cricket for the East Midlands at Loughborough University, added:            

“Rob has consistently delivered at the highest level in cricket in both playing and coaching capacities. We are thrilled to welcome someone of his experience and understanding on board and we’re sure the programme will flourish under his guidance and leadership.”

For more information on cricket at Loughborough, click HERE.