Birkenshaw listed for top award

Jack Birkenshaw, right, celebrates England women's Ashes triumph last year, following the World Cup and World T20 wins

Jack Birkenshaw’s outstanding contribution to cricket has been recognised with a nomination for the lifetime achievement award at the 2010 UK coaching awards.

Birkenshaw is about to stand down from his position as assistant coach to the England women’s team after two and a half years.

During that time the side has won the World Cup and World Twenty20 as well as retaining the Ashes.

The former England, Yorkshire, Leicestershire and Worcestershire all-rounder has been in the game for over 50 years as a player, coach and umpire.

His career coaching highlights also include winning the County Championship in 1996 and 1998 as head coach at Leicestershire.

England women’s captain Charlotte Edwards said: "Jack's knowledge, passion and enthusiasm has played an influential part in our success and development as a team over the past two years.

“I know I speak for every player when I say that we are so privileged to have worked with such a legend of the game."

The winner will be announced at the UK coaching awards at The Brewery, London, on Tuesday 30 November.