YORKSHIRE’S Women’s Super League team will be called the Diamonds following yesterday’s launch of team names and fixtures for the new competition.

The Yorkshire Diamonds will compete against Lancashire Thunder, Loughborough Lightning, Southern Vipers, Surrey Stars and Western Storm in the six-team Twenty20 league from late July to late August,

The Diamonds, coached by Rich Pyrah, will host Loughborough in their opening match at Headingley on Saturday July 30 before hosting Western Storm to round off the group stage on Sunday August 14.

The blockbuster Roses clash takes place under lights at Old Trafford on Friday August 12, the day before the start of the men’s County Championship clash there.

There will be a Finals Day at Chelmsford on Sunday August 21.

“We are delighted to welcome Yorkshire Diamonds to the family,” said Yorkshire’s chief executive Mark Arthur.

“Cricket is one of the fastest-growing female sports in the country, and to be part of the inaugural Women’s Cricket Super League is very special for the club and the local region.

“We aim to make the Yorkshire Diamonds, through our partnership with Leeds Becket University, an integral part of the Yorkshire sporting landscape.

"And ultimately see the Diamonds become the most prosperous professional female team in the region through success on the field and a vibrant supporter base off it.”

Final squads are expected to be confirmed by Easter, with it being likely that Yorkshire’s England players Katherine Brunt, Danielle Hazell and Lauren Winfield will play for the Diamonds.