Lancashire Part Ways With Mark Chilton and David Thorley in Major Backroom Shake-Up

Lancashire director of cricket performance Mark Chilton and director of women's cricket David Thorley are set to leave the club as part of a behind-the-scenes restructuring.

Chilton, a former Lancashire captain who made nearly 200 first-class appearances for the Red Rose county, has spent more than two decades at the club. After concluding his playing career, he joined the coaching staff in 2014 before taking on his current role as director of cricket performance in 2021.

His departure comes amid a difficult campaign for the men's senior team, who are facing their lowest-ever finish in the County Championship. Sitting seventh in Division Two with just one match remaining, Lancashire risk finishing bottom depending on final-round results.

Thorley, who has held the role of director of women's cricket since 2020, oversaw the transition from a regional structure to a county set-up. Under his leadership, Lancashire claimed both the One-Day Cup and T20 County Cup in 2025. However, the women's side endured a challenging season this year, finishing at the bottom of their T20 Blast group and missing out on the knockout rounds of the One-Day Cup.

Lancashire chief executive Daniel Gidney praised both figures for their dedication and contributions during key transitional eras for the club.

"We all share the ambition of seeing our Lancashire teams win games, progress in competitions and compete for trophies," Gidney said.

"For the men's side, the County Championship is at the heart of the club's cricketing vision, while for Lancashire Women, our aim is to consistently challenge for major honours.

"I would like to express my thanks to Mark for his long association with the Red Rose and to David for leading the women's side through such a transformational period. Their contribution and commitment to Lancashire Cricket over the years is very much appreciated, and we wish them both well for the future."