Croft confirmed as Lancashire’s permanent head coach
Lancashire Cricket has officially appointed Steven Croft as the permanent head coach of the men’s team following his successful interim tenure during the 2025 season. Croft, a club legend with more than two decades of service as a player, stepped in after the departure of Dale Benkenstein in May and immediately revitalized the squad’s performance.
Under Croft’s leadership, Lancashire recovered from a winless start to the County Championship to finish fifth in Division Two, and also reached the Vitality Blast Finals Day, having topped the North Group with nine wins. His appointment marks a new chapter for the Red Rose, with the club now looking to build on the momentum of the latter half of the season.
“It means so much to have the honour of being named Head Coach of this great Club. Lancashire has been a huge part of my life — from joining the Academy as a young player, to captaining the team, and now stepping into this role off the field,” Croft said in a statement.
Driving progress on and off the field
Croft, who retired from playing in 2023 after over 600 appearances for Lancashire, is widely respected within the club and among its supporters. He was part of the 2011 County Championship-winning team and captained Lancashire to the T20 Blast title in 2015. His deep connection with the Red Rose setup has been cited as a major strength heading into his first full season in charge.
“I’m incredibly proud of how the lads responded last season, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. We have a talented, driven squad who are passionate about representing the Red Rose and I believe there is much more to come,” Croft added.
“My focus now is on building on the second half of last season’s progress, helping each player improve, and bring success back to the Club for our Members and supporters at Emirates Old Trafford.”
Endorsement from leadership and new coaching structure
Lancashire’s Director of Cricket Performance, Mark Chilton, praised Croft’s impact during a difficult transition and highlighted the leadership qualities that made him the standout candidate.
“We are thrilled that Steven has accepted the role permanently after making such a strong impression this summer,” Chilton said in a statement.
“Taking over during a challenging period in May, Steven displayed outstanding leadership throughout this summer. His passion for Lancashire Cricket, knowledge and understanding of the game, and ability to connect with players made him the outstanding candidate.”
Looking ahead, Croft will work within a restructured cricket department, taking a lead role in the first team’s day-to-day coaching.
“He will take a hands-on role in the leading of day-to-day coaching of the First Team and will be supported by a restructured cricket department — including Assistant Coach Will Porterfield — with further appointments to follow,” Chilton added.
Preparations underway for the 2026 season
Croft’s first full season in charge will begin with pre-season training from November 10, as the squad regroups at Emirates Old Trafford. With renewed focus and continuity in leadership, Lancashire will be hoping to convert their late-season resurgence into silverware under Croft’s guidance.
