Mark Robinson enters frame for Warwickshire head coach role

Mark Robinson, the former head coach of England women, could be set for a return to cricket, after emerging as a strong candidate for the vacant role of Warwickshire head coach.

ESPNcricinfo understands that Robinson, who was head coach when England Women won the World Cup in 2017, has a second interview with the club this week.

Mark Ramprakash, Graeme Welch and Donovan Miller, who were among those shortlisted for the role, were not invited back for a second interview.

As well as his success with England Women, Robinson was head coach when Sussex won the County Championship in 2005 and 2007, the Friends Provident Trophy in 2006, the T20 competition in 2009 and the Pro 40 League in 2008 and 2009.

During this period, he gained a strong reputation, not just for his ability to coax performances from his players but for signing players of previously untapped potential. Jofra Archer and Ollie Robinson (no relation) both joined the club on his watch.

He also gained admiration at Sussex and with England for the manner in which he helped Michael Yardy and Sarah Taylor through tough periods in their personal lives.

Robinson's England side also reached the final of the World T20 in November 2018 but, less than a year later, he was sacked after his side were overwhelmed by Australia in the Ashes. He has not held a high-profile role in the game since.

The Warwickshire job became available after Jim Troughton was sacked at the end of the 2020 season. The positions of the remainder of the coaching staff - Tony Frost (batting), Welch (bowling) and Ian Westwood (second XI) - are understood to be safe. Paul Farbrace remains as director of cricket.

An appointment is expected before Christmas.