“I am delighted to be appointed as head coach of the London Spirit Women’s team,” Noffke said. “I have been attracted by the explosive nature of the competition and look forward to helping ensure that the Spirit are challenging for the trophy at the end of August.

“Lord’s is a very special place for me, having played for Middlesex for two seasons in 2002 and 2003, and I can’t wait to get back to the Home of Cricket next summer.”

Fraser Stewart, the team’s general manager, said: “We are delighted to have obtained Ashley as our new women’s head coach. He was the outstanding candidate from a list of very impressive applicants, showing the strength and allure of the Hundred and the women’s game.

“We look forward to seeing the impact he can have on our talented squad, both developing players and delivering results on the field.

“The entire London Spirit organisation would also like to place on record our thanks to Trevor Griffin for all his work over the last two years.

“Trevor led the team to a fourth-placed finish in the first edition of the Hundred, only missing out on a place in the Eliminator on Net Run Rate and has worked tirelessly for the betterment of the team. We are extremely grateful for all his hard work.”