In the 150-year history of Essex County Cricket Club, Rachel Lewis has made history as the first female chair of the board. Jason Gallian resigned from the position after temporarily assuming it last year.
Lewis has a close relationship with the county because she has served as Essex Cricket in the Community Chair for the past three years, encouraging participation and inclusivity among cricket players. The club was established in 1876, therefore commemorating its 150th anniversary is a momentous occasion in its history.
Lewis is a former professional volleyball player who represented Great Britain at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. However, Great Britain finished sixth in Pool A with just one victory.
Being appointed Chair of the Essex County Cricket Club is an enormous pleasure, especially in this 150th year. As we begin a crucial new chapter, I am eager to build on our Club’s proud history. We have a fantastic chance to advance Essex Cricket with the renovation of our stadium and both of our teams playing at the top level.
On Essex’s official website, Rachel Lewis stated, “I am appreciative of the trust placed in me and look forward to working with the Board, our players, staff, and members to ensure continued success.”
In their historic year, the Essex Men’s and Women’s sides are competing at the top level of domestic cricket. The men’s squad is currently ranked sixth in the County Championship Division One rankings with 105 points from eight games. They also made it to the quarterfinals of the 2026 T20 Blast before falling to Hampshire in Southampton.
The women’s team was one of the eight initial participants in the revised Tier 1 system, which took effect in 2025. After placing fifth in the T20 Blast Women’s, they are now at the bottom of the 2026 Women’s One Day Cup standings.
