Mark Robinson has been named the new head coach of the England women's cricket team.

The 48-year-old, who is currently in charge of Sussex, will switch to the women's game at the end of the year prior to the team's tour of South Africa in February 2016.

Robinson has previously worked with the England Lions and the England Under-19s.

"I'm incredibly excited about this opportunity," said Robinson. "It is obvious to everybody how quickly women's cricket has grown in recent years. The game is now truly professional in every respect, so to have the chance to play a part in the next chapter for the England women's team is a great honour. I'm also really looking forward to the challenge of coaching in an international environment again.

"It does mean I will be leaving Sussex, and I would like to thank everyone who I have worked and played alongside at the club, as well as the supporters, for providing me with so many happy memories."

The England and Wales Cricket Board's director of England women's cricket, Clare Connor, added: "We are absolutely delighted to appoint Mark as the head coach of the England women's team. He has a superb coaching record with Sussex, experience of working with England teams, a reputation for getting the best out of players, and is highly regarded as one of the best coaches working in the men's professional game."

England women's cricket announced plans of a restructure in September after removing the role of head of England women's performance, which was held by Paul Shaw.