Farewell to Longstanding Backroom Duo as England’s White-ball Era Evolves
As the curtain closes on England’s West Indies tour, the men’s set-up bids farewell to two integral members of the backroom staff – Carl Hopkinson and Richard Dawson. These seasoned coaches have played pivotal roles in the team’s recent triumphant campaigns, including the 2019 50-over World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup.
Farewell to Instrumental Coaches
Hopkinson, England’s long-serving fielding coach, joined the team in 2018 and was instrumental in their success at major tournaments. He reflected on his time with the national side, stating, “It has been a career highlight not only to be part of the England coaching set-up for the past seven years but also to be involved in two historic World Cup victories, which is something I’ll always cherish.”
Dawson, who previously played seven Tests as an off-spinner, transitioned into coaching and served as the head coach of the England Under-19 team that reached the 2022 World Cup final. Prior to joining the senior coaching staff ahead of the 2022 T20 World Cup, he played a crucial role in developing young talent and strengthening the depth of spin bowling within the country.
In his farewell statement, Dawson shared, “I have enjoyed every minute in the England environment and working with some of the best white-ball players in the world as well as great people in the coaching team and backroom staff from the U19s to senior team.”
Praise for Departing Coaches
Rob Key, England Men’s managing director, praised the contributions of Hopkinson and Dawson, stating, “Hoppo and Daws are two outstanding coaches who have played important roles in the success of our white-ball teams. In addition to their coaching expertise with our senior teams, they have also developed young players through the age groups to help set up the next era of our white-ball teams. England Cricket is in a better place because of them, and I wish them well in the next chapter of their careers.”
As the team prepares for the arrival of Brendon McCullum as the new head coach across all three formats, the departures of Hopkinson and Dawson mark the end of an era, paving the way for a new chapter in England’s white-ball journey.
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