Orlando, FL — Momentum continues to build for women’s cricket in the United States as the American Women’s Cricket Support Group (AWCSG) officially announces its coaching leadership for the inaugural Premier Women’s T20 Tournament, scheduled for April 3–5, 2026, at the Orlando Cricket Ground in Groveland, Florida.
Following the recent draft of 36 players into three competitive squads, AWCSG has appointed three nationally respected cricket figures—Earl Daley, Chita Nilak, and Sindhu Sriharsha—to lead the American Titans, Patriots, and Freedom Flyers, respectively.
The coaches were selected through a blind draft process and paired with teams, reinforcing AWCSG’s commitment to fairness, professionalism, and competitive balance.
“This tournament represents much more than matches on a field,” said an AWCSG spokesperson. “It’s about building pathways, developing leadership, and creating meaningful opportunities for women and girls across the country.”
Chairman of Coaches: Charles David Thomson
Guiding the tournament’s technical and performance framework will be Charles David Thomson, a BCCI Level 3 Certified Coach and ICC Level 3 High Performance Coach.
A 20-year coaching veteran and former first-class cricketer, Thomson brings international experience in elite athlete development, leadership, and team management. His career includes coaching at the Indian Navy, where he received recognition from the Chief of the Naval Staff for outstanding service and for topping the Indian Navy’s management leadership program.
“I’m excited to help shape an environment where players can thrive,” said Thomson. “This tournament is a powerful step forward for women’s cricket in the U.S., and my focus will be on high-performance standards while supporting the assigned coaches and each athlete’s growth.”
American Titans – Coach Earl Daley
Former USA national cricketer Earl Daley will lead the American Titans. Currently Head Coach at Jersey Titans Cricket Academy in New Jersey, Daley holds ICC Australian Level II certification and specialized coaching credentials for athletes with sight and hearing impairments.
His extensive résumé includes coaching regional teams in New York and New Jersey, the Atlantic Under-19 squad at USA Nationals, the New Jersey Stallions in Minor League Cricket (MiLC), and the USA National Women’s team in a bilateral series in the UAE.
“Being part of this historic tournament is truly special,” said Daley. “These players represent the future of women’s cricket in America. My goal is to help them build confidence, sharpen their skills, and compete with pride.”
Patriots – Coach Chita Nilak
Chita Nilak, an ICC Level 3 Certified Coach, Australia Level 2 Certified Coach, and ICC Level 2 Tutor, will coach the Patriots.
Nilak served as Assistant Coach for the undefeated USA National Women’s team at the 2023 ICC Americas Women’s World Cup Qualifiers and has led multiple championship-caliber squads at USA Nationals, producing MVP, Best Batter, and Best Bowler award winners. Coach Nilak has served as the Head Coach for the MiLC’s Ft. Lauderdale Lions.
“This tournament is exactly what women’s cricket needs—consistent competition and quality coaching,” said Nilak. “I’m proud to be part of something that creates real opportunities for these athletes to showcase their talent.”
Freedom Flyers – Coach Sindhu Sriharsha
Former USA National Women’s Captain (2019–2024) Sindhu Sriharsha will coach the Freedom Flyers. Now an ICC Level 2 Certified Coach, Sriharsha has delivered development programs across California and served as Head Coach for the San Jose Spirits and the Northwest Regional Teams in the 2025 USA Domestic Pathway program.
A former national wicketkeeper-batter, she brings firsthand experience at the elite level and a strong passion for mentorship.
“I’ve walked this journey as a player, and now I’m honored to support the next generation as a coach,” said Sriharsha. “This tournament gives young women visibility, confidence, and belief—and that’s incredibly powerful.”
A Tournament Designed to Elevate Women’s Cricket
The Premier Women’s T20 will feature a dynamic mix of current national players and emerging Under-19 talent, creating a competitive showcase that highlights both excellence and development.
With elite coaching leadership now confirmed, anticipation continues to grow for what promises to be one of the most professionally organized women’s cricket tournaments in U.S. history.
AWCSG is also actively engaging sponsors, academies, and community partners to help expand programming beyond the tournament—supporting year-round athlete development, mental resilience training, and leadership growth.
“This is about building a sustainable future for women’s cricket,” said AWCSG. “We are creating pathways, opening doors, and giving female athletes the platform they deserve.”
The countdown to April 3–5, 2026, has officially begun.
