THE men might be struggling, but women’s cricket in England is blossoming and last week national captain Charlotte Edwards brought a handful of her international teammate to Marlow to mark the launch of a new girls team with a coaching masterclass.

More than 60 girls and women attended the taster session as Marlow’s Pound Lane ground.

Cricket development manager as Marlow CC Nigel Ashton said: “The evening was a huge success and it was absolutely fantastic to have England's top female cricketer and England Captain host a training session to encourage more girls and ladies into the sport.

"We also raised over £500 on the evening, which is a strong contribution towards the £20,000 fund needed to pay for new net facilities at the club. "Ladies cricket is the fastest growing sport in the UK and it's so great to be based in the centre of the community at Marlow Sports Club."

Meanwhile, head of England women’s cricket Claire Connor said: “It’s so important for young girls to have the opportunity to give cricket a go in a positive and welcoming club environment.

“Clearly Marlow provides that and they are showing real commitment in their efforts to launch a girls’ cricket section at their club.

“We are thrilled that England captain Charlotte Edwards went down to the club to give the whole project a boost and to hopefully provide some inspiration to the girls who attended the taster session.

“The impact of our best sporting role models can never be underestimated and we wish Marlow every success in this venture.”