Oswestry Cricket Club’s Women and Girls’ captain and coach Naomi Payne has been named joint ECB Coach of the Year.

Naomi, who was presented with her award at the England and Wales Cricket Board’s Coach Awards ceremony in Coventry having been shortlisted for national recognition after being named Cricket Shropshire’s Coach of the Year earlier this month.

Hosted by the Sky Sports cricket commentator Charles Dagnall, the event saw inspirational club cricket coaches recognised and rewarded for their commitment and passion in improving skills, participation and performance.

Judged by an independent panel of senior ECB coaches and administrators, Naomi’s efforts in growing the Oswestry Women and Girls’ section was highlighted by the panel, saying: “Naomi has single-handedly led the development of the Oswestry CC Women and Girls’ section, growing the squad and developing relationships with sponsors and funders.

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"Her biggest impact is the number of youth players brought on during 2022.

"It is testament to Naomi’s hard work in improving skills and confidence of team members that the club’s women and girls team qualified for the Shropshire Cricket Board’s Women’s hard ball finals day in their inaugural hard ball season."

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Naomi was delighted with her recognition describing herself as "chuffed to bits."

Naomi said: “I had no idea this national award was coming. I simply thought I would be joining other county winners at an event celebrating the positive impact that coaches make in their clubs and communities."

Club chairman Steve Adams, added: “We at Oswestry Cricket Club are very proud of Naomi’s achievements. Naomi’s cricket knowledge, drive and enthusiasm has created our thriving Women’s and Girl's section.

"We very much look forward to supporting Naomi and team into next season and welcome any new players or support staff."

Andrew Leggatt, who runs the club’s junior section, was also shortlisted after receiving Cricket Shropshire’s Outstanding Contribution Award for Services to Coaching earlier this month.

Any girls aged 10 or older who would like to experience women’s cricket can join indoor taster sessions in the New Year by emailing Naomi at naomipayneocc@gmail.com or message via the Facebook or Instagram pages.