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NSW, Thunder coach steps down

Joanne Broadbent announces the end of her tenure as coach of the Breakers and Thunder, ending a successful time at the helm

Championship-winning NSW Breakers and Sydney Thunder coach Joanne Broadbent has stepped down as coach, ending a tenure as one of Australia’s most successful coaches.

Broadbent took the Breakers to six Women’s National Cricket League titles in the space of seven years, including the last three in a row, while she also guided the Thunder to the inaugural Rebel WBBL title in 2016.

This summer, she was at the helm as the Breakers saw off Queensland to win their 20th domestic 50-over title in the competition’s 23-year history, while the Thunder came agonisingly close to another WBBL final, falling to the Brisbane Heat in a semi-final thriller.

“A new era is beginning with the Breakers and the Sydney Thunder and I believe this creates a natural opportunity for me to step away,” Broadbent said.

“I feel I have done as much as I can to develop, challenge and inspire players and staff as the Breakers and Thunder Head Coach.

“This is a decision I have been contemplating for a while and I’m looking forward to some other challenges and opportunities that are on the horizon.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time with the Breakers and the Thunder watching exciting young players mature into quality cricketers and fine female athletes.

“Winning WBBL|01 alongside our men’s team is one of my highlights, however seeing the growth in the players and staff are my proudest moments, which I reflect on regularly.

“I’d like to thank all the players and support staff for their commitment and wish them all the best for the future.”

Breakers claim remarkable 20th WNCL title

Her departure means the Thunder will have a new coach at the helm for this summer’s first standalone season of the WBBL, which is expected to begin in October.

Broadbent, who played 10 Tests and 60 ODIs for Australia, was awarded OAM for services to cricket last year.

Cricket NSW Chief Executive and former Sydney Thunder General Manager Lee Germon said Broadbent’s coaching record spoke for itself.

“Her success is unprecedented in Australian and world cricket,” Mr Germon said.

“Aside from winning tournaments, Jo has also assisted with the development of a number of players who have moved on to play for Australia in a variety of formats.

“During this time the Breakers have consistently provided five contracted Australian players.

“Following the professionalisation of the women’s game by Cricket NSW, Joanne was the first women’s coach in Australia to provide a full time professional program to players.

“She has an ability to bring together coaching and support staff to provide high quality training and support for players.

“Cricket NSW thanks Joanne for her enormous contribution and wishes her every success in the future.”