Alex Gidman has been appointed England Women's assistant coach after leaving his position as batting coach at Kent.

Kent Cricket can confirm that Alex Gidman has left his post as men's batting coach at the club to become assistant coach of England Women.

The former Gloucestershire batsman also coached Worcestershire to the 2019 T20 Blast title. The 42-year-old will work under his former county teammate Jon Lewis. Lewis is currently head coach of the England women's team. In addition to Gidman, Gareth Breese and Matt Mason also serve as assistant coaches for the women's team.

“Alex joins us at a very exciting time as we prepare for what will be the busiest 15 months in women’s international cricket. Being able to bring in someone with Alex's experience is fantastic news and will only strengthen the support we can offer." "I would also like to thank Kent CCC for enabling Alex to move into his new role so quickly to support our preparation for the upcoming tour to India," Jonathan Finch, the director of England Women's Cricket, was quoted as saying.

“I would also like to thank Kent CCC for enabling Alex to transition into his new role so quickly and support our preparation for the upcoming tour to India.”

Gidman added: “I’m delighted to be joining the England Women’s coaching team.

“There is a great mix of experienced and young players in the squad and I can’t wait to get started and add value at what is an exciting time for women’s football over the next few years.”

“I would also like to say a big thank you to Kent. I really enjoyed my time there and wish them all the best for the future.”

An England senior team will also tour India this winter and in preparation for that, another Jon Lewis - JJB Lewis, the former Durham head coach - has joined the ECB permanently as performance batting coach. A performance pace bowling coach will be appointed in due course.

“The performance coach role will ensure we can coach and manage our England Women’s A and England Women’s Under-19 programs more consistently as we look to build a group of players ready to play for England in the future. women to achieve,” Finch added.

“These roles will allow us to provide more opportunities for players looking to make the transition into England women’s squads across all formats.”