Paul Grayson replaces Richard Pyrah as Yorkshire Diamonds head coach

Grayson began his playing career with his native Yorkshire before going on to make his name as an all-rounder at Essex and win two England one-day international caps.

The 45-year-old - who also coached at Essex - has signed a contract until 2019 and will combine his new role with that as coach at Durham University MCCU.

Pyrah led the Diamonds in the inaugural season of the competition but has changed roles to join Andrew Gale's coaching unit for the Yorkshire men's side.

Grayson said: “I am delighted to be joining as Head Coach for the Yorkshire Diamonds.

“The opportunity to work with an elite female team is really exciting for me and a role which gives me a fantastic opportunity to use my First-Class coaching experience.

“I am looking forward to meeting up with players and the Diamonds support staff very soon and preparing for Super League competition.”

Jane Hildreth, Yorkshire Diamonds General Manager added: “I am thrilled that we have been able to recruit Paul as Yorkshire Diamonds Head Coach.

“Paul has a wealth of experience in the game having had a successful coaching career with Essex County Cricket Club and Durham University MCCU. Paul will take the Yorkshire Diamonds forward and build a team who will be challenging for the title in 2017.

“We are all excited to be working with Paul and look forward to welcoming him back to Headingley”