Melbourne Renegades appoint Simon Helmot as Women's Big Bash coach

Helmot, who replaces Lachlan Stevens following his resignation last month, was involved in the team's setup in 2020, working as assistant coach to the men’s and women’s teams

Melbourne Renegades have appointed Simon Helmot as the club’s head coach for the next two editions of the Women’s Big Bash.

The 49-year-old is an experienced head on the T20 franchise circuit, having previously held roles in the Indian Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, Afghan Premier League, Bangladesh Premier League and in the Big Bash, where he coached Renegades’ men’s side in the inaugural competition.

Helmot, who replaces Lachlan Stevens following his resignation last month, returned to the Renegades setup in 2020, working as assistant coach to the men’s and women’s teams.

“It was a great experience returning to the Renegades last season and, in my first year in the WBBL, I was really impressed by the talent across the competition,” he said.

“It was a tough season for us in terms of results, but winning three of our last five games highlights the resilience and character of the group, so I’m really excited to be working with them again and seeing what we can build over the next couple of seasons.

“Ultimately I want to create an environment where players can improve as individuals, both in a cricket sense and away from the game, and then bring it all together so we can succeed as a team.”

^{Melbourne Renegades only won 10 points in last year's Women's Big Bash}

David Lever, the club’s general manager, added: “Simon brings a positive attitude and an enthusiastic approach to the role, supplemented by more than 15 years coaching experience across the globe.

“He was able to form a strong connection with our playing group last season and his passion, work ethic and care are some of his characteristics that have and will continue to resonate with our club.

“Simon is dedicated to developing our squad both as players and people and that all-round approach will have us well positioned for future success.”

In 2020, Renegades finished second from last, with only Hobart Hurricanes beneath them. Local rivals Melbourne Stars finished nine points above them in topping the table before losing the final against Sydney Thunder, who are coached by Englishman Trevor Griffin.

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