Essex appoint Lewis as first female chair

Essex have appointed Rachel Lewis as the club's first-ever female chair of the board in their 150-year history.

The former Olympic volleyball player replaces the departing Jason Gallian with immediate effect after he stepped down following "careful consideration" at the end of last week.

Lewis has served as the chairwoman of Essex cricket in the community for the past three years and now becomes the club's fifth chair in as many years.

Essex have also confirmed that Gallian will stay on as a board member.

"This club has a proud heritage, and I am excited to build on that foundation as we embark on a critical new chapter," Lewis told Essex's website, external.

"With the redevelopment of our ground and both our teams competing at the highest level, we have a tremendous opportunity to drive Essex Cricket forward."