Dani Hazell Returns to Durham as Women's Team Head Coach

Durham Cricket has secured a significant signing ahead of their inaugural season as a Tier 1 women's team in 2025. Former England international and highly regarded head coach Dani Hazell has returned to Chester-le-Street on a three-year deal.

Hazell, who represented England in 141 matches between 2009 and 2018, including two World Cups and three Ashes victories, will continue her role as head coach of the Northern Superchargers while leading Durham's women's team.

Having started her playing career at Durham's academy, Hazell was a natural target for the club as they aim to establish themselves as a leading force in women's cricket in the north of England. Her appointment could potentially entice other Leeds-based Northern Diamonds players to join Durham, rather than waiting for Yorkshire to achieve Tier 1 status in 2026.

"It was evident from the outset that Dani was the ideal person to guide Durham into this new chapter and establish a legacy as a professional women's team," said Marcus North, Durham's director of cricket. "Her intimate knowledge of the club, having played for us and contributed to our women's and girls' pathway, is invaluable."

"Dani's reputation as a successful head coach with the Northern Diamonds and Northern Superchargers is well-established. Her winning mentality as both a player and coach is a valuable asset for Durham. I am eager to collaborate with her as we embark on this exciting chapter for Durham Cricket."

Hazell, 36, took over as Northern Diamonds' head coach in 2019, leading the team to victory in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy in 2022. Under her guidance, the Northern Superchargers reached the final of the women's Hundred in 2023. She has also played a pivotal role in developing the Diamonds academy.

"I am thrilled to accept the position of head coach," said Hazell. "This is a transformative chapter for Durham Cricket and the entire region, and I am honored to be a part of this historic era for the club."

"I share the club's aspirations and standards for continuous growth and progress, particularly at this pivotal moment for women's and girls' cricket. After our initial discussions, I recognized that this was the right opportunity for me to return to my home club, and I am eager to embrace the challenges ahead."

Tim Bostock, Durham's chief executive, added: "We are delighted that Dani has agreed to lead our women's team. Her global expertise in the game is crucial, but her familiarity with Durham cricket is equally important. We believe she is the ideal fit for Durham Cricket."

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