Mark Coles has been appointed head coach of Zimbabwe Women ahead of their five-match T20I series against South Africa, which begins on September 11 in Bulawayo. The New Zealander has formerly served as head coach of the Pakistan and Scotland women's teams, and as interim coach of the Papua New Guinea men's team, apart from holding various roles in domestic and franchise cricket.
Coles' coaching staff will include assistant coach (batting) Rangarirai Manyande, fielding coach Trevor Phiri, strength and conditioning coach Faith Dube, physiotherapist Farai Mabasa, analyst Keith Kulinga and team manager Mary-Anne Musonda.
Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) has retained Trevor Garwe as head coach of the Under-19 Women's team, with Nonhlanhla Kamuteku as assistant coach (batting), Malcolm Chikuwa as bowling coach and Susan Kudzibatira as team manager.
Ishmael Senzere, meanwhile, has joined the women's selection panel as its fourth member, with Julia Chibhabha continuing as convenor alongside Emily Jinjika and Thandowenkosi Mlilo.
"Mark Coles brings extensive international coaching and high-performance experience, as well as a strong understanding of the demands of the women's game," ZC Chairman Tavengwa Mukuhlani said. "Together with the technical and support staff appointed across our senior and Under-19 structures, we believe he will help us build a competitive team and establish a clear pathway for sustained success.
"We are confident that this group will help Zimbabwe women's cricket continue to grow and compete strongly on the international stage."
