Ed Joyce Bids Farewell as Ireland Women’s Head Coach
After nearly six years at the helm, Ed Joyce has announced his decision to step down as the head coach of the Ireland Women’s cricket team. Joyce, who took over the role in 2019, will oversee the team’s campaign at the World Cup Qualifier in Pakistan this April before moving on to new endeavors.
A New Chapter Begins
Having represented both Ireland and England during his playing career, Joyce’s tenure as head coach saw a series of remarkable achievements for the team. Under his guidance, Ireland secured T20I series wins in Pakistan and Bangladesh, triumphed over Sri Lanka in ODIs, and even claimed a historic victory against England in ODIs for the first time in over two decades. Additionally, they achieved their first T20I success against England to draw the series 1-1.
Despite facing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted the team’s schedule and thwarted their bid for a spot in the 2022 50-over World Cup, Joyce remained steadfast in his commitment to the players and the program. His leadership during this tumultuous period was instrumental in guiding the team through unprecedented circumstances and maintaining their competitive edge.
Reflecting on his time as head coach, Joyce expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead Cricket Ireland’s women’s performance program and work alongside a dedicated group of cricketers and support staff. He noted the significant progress made in professionalizing the women’s game in Ireland, from the introduction of part-time contracts to the expansion of the player pool under contract, including several full-time players.
A Legacy of Transformation
Graeme West, Cricket Ireland’s director of high performance, praised Joyce’s impact on the senior women’s program, highlighting his role in elevating the team to new heights and instilling a sense of belonging among the players in international cricket. West acknowledged the board’s efforts to retain Joyce as head coach but respected his decision to pursue new opportunities and bring fresh perspectives to the team.
As Joyce prepares to lead the team for one final campaign at the World Cup Qualifier in Pakistan, Cricket Ireland is focused on ensuring a smooth transition for the incoming head coach. While Joyce’s departure marks the end of an era, his contributions to Irish cricket will be remembered for years to come. The board expressed gratitude for his dedication and leadership, emphasizing the hope to welcome him back in some capacity in the future.
In bidding farewell to Ed Joyce as Ireland Women’s head coach, the cricketing community acknowledges his lasting impact on the sport and looks ahead to a new chapter for the team under fresh leadership. Joyce’s legacy of transformation and dedication to the development of women’s cricket in Ireland serves as a testament to his enduring influence on the game.
