Durham has successfully secured a significant acquisition for their inaugural season as a Tier 1 women’s team in 2025 with the return of Dani Hazell, the esteemed head coach of Northern Diamonds, to Chester-le-Street on a three-year contract.
Hazell, who represented England in 141 matches between 2009 and 2018, including participating in two World Cup victories and three Ashes series wins, will continue her role as head coach of the Northern Superchargers while taking on her new responsibilities at Durham.
Having started her cricketing journey at Durham's academy, Hazell was a prime candidate for the club as they aimed to establish themselves as the new epicentre of women’s cricket in the north of England. Her return is expected to attract other players from the Leeds-based Diamonds to consider moving to Durham, especially as they await Yorkshire's progression to Tier 1 status in 2026.
Marcus North, Durham’s director of cricket, expressed his enthusiasm about Hazell’s appointment. He mentioned that from the outset, it was evident that Hazell was the ideal person to guide Durham into their new phase and help carve out their history as a professional women’s team. North highlighted her deep connection with the club, having both played for and worked within their women and girls’ pathway in recent years.
He further noted that Hazell's stellar reputation as a coach with the Northern Diamonds and Northern Superchargers, coupled with her winning mentality as a player and coach, makes her a thrilling addition to Durham. North is eager to collaborate with her as they embark on this promising journey for Durham Cricket.
Hazell, now 36, took over the helm of Northern Diamonds in 2019, leading them to win the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy in 2022. Additionally, under her guidance, the Northern Superchargers reached the final of the women's Hundred in 2023. Throughout her tenure, she has been instrumental in developing the Diamonds Academy.
In her statement, Hazell expressed her excitement about her new role. She described this as an exhilarating new chapter for Durham Cricket and the wider region, stating her desire to be part of this significant period for the club. Hazell felt aligned with the club’s ambitions and standards and believed this was the right opportunity for her to return to her home club. She is looking forward to the challenges ahead.
Tim Bostock, Durham's chief executive, also shared his delight at Hazell’s appointment. He emphasised her comprehensive knowledge of the game, both globally and within Durham, as being crucial. Bostock believes that Hazell is the perfect fit for Durham Cricket and is excited to welcome her back to the club.