A Clean Slate and Clear Progress - Stephen Franklin discusses all things Leicestershire Women

Leicestershire Women head into the 2026 season with renewed belief, a stronger structure and a squad ready to build on a promising first year in Tier Two. For Head Coach Stephen Franklin, the journey so far has been one of challenge, learning and significant progress.

A First Season of Unknowns - “It was a rollercoaster”

The Foxes’ introduction to Tier Two cricket came with more questions than answers. “It was a bit of a rollercoaster,” Franklin reflects. “We didn’t really know what it was going to look like. There was no real winter programme, no pre-season games - we went from trials straight into that first match.” With little preparation time and no clear picture of the opposition, the early stages of the season were about adapting quickly.

But despite the uncertainty, the squad rose to the challenge. “We didn’t start perfectly, but overall, we finished ahead of where we expected to be.” A T20 Finals Day appearance and a quarter-final against eventual winners Lancashire underlined the team’s progress. “To compete against teams bringing in England players shows how seriously they took us - and how far we’d come.”

Learning and Building Foundations

If year one was about finding their feet, the 2026 pre-season has been about building with purpose. “This winter’s been completely different,” Franklin explains. “We’ve had clarity - we knew what worked last year and where we needed to improve, especially in 50-over cricket.” That clarity has translated into structure. More than 80 players were assessed across the winter, with 10 new additions strengthening both depth and competition. “We’ve built a squad that can handle the demands of the season. If someone’s unavailable, we’ve got players ready to step in.”

The environment around the squad has also evolved. From strength and conditioning programmes to psychological support, the setup now reflects the growing professionalism of the women’s game. “It’s about giving players the tools to perform - not just technically, but mentally as well.”

The Reality Behind the Progress

While performances on the pitch have improved, Franklin is clear that success at this level comes with significant sacrifice. “Our players don’t get paid,” he says. “They’re giving up work, studies, time - just to play.” Balancing cricket with everyday life remains one of the biggest challenges facing Tier Two players. “Some will have to make tough decisions in the future.

That’s the reality of where the game currently sits.” Despite this, the commitment within the group remains unwavering. “They want to do more - it’s just not always possible. But the desire is always there.”

Pathways That Are Working

One of the standout positives from last season has been the emergence of players progressing through the system. Francesca Sweet’s breakthrough campaign is a prime example. “She came in late, took her chance and never looked back,” Franklin says. “It proves the pathway works.” She is part of a growing group of players making strides within regional and national setups - reinforcing Leicestershire’s role in player development. “We want to be known as a club that develops talent across the board - not just in the men’s game.”

Leadership Driving Standards

Continuity will be key in 2026, with Rebecca Brooker returning as captain. For Franklin, her impact extends far beyond her performances with the bat. “She led the team brilliantly, even when things weren’t going her way personally,” he says. “That says everything about her as a leader.” Leadership, however, is not confined to one player. “We want a squad full of leaders. Everyone has a responsibility - whether they’re on the pitch or supporting from the sidelines.”

A Growing Stage for the Women’s Game

With the women’s game continuing to grow, so too do the opportunities for players to perform on bigger stages. Experiences like playing at Headingley last season - and the prospect of stepping onto iconic grounds again - are not lost on the squad. “These are the moments they dreamed of as kids,” Franklin says. “Now they’re living them.”

The rise in visibility is also helping to inspire future players. “We want young girls to come down, watch and think - that could be me one day.”

Defining Success in 2026

While results remain important, Franklin’s focus for the upcoming season is clear. “It’s about competing for longer periods,” he says. “If we improve on last year and learn from our mistakes, we’ll be in a good place.”

The challenge will be tougher, particularly in T20 cricket with a new single-group format increasing competition. “Every game matters this year - there’s no room to drift.”

A Clean Slate

With pre-season fixtures underway and selection decisions approaching, excitement is building ahead of the opening game against Sussex at Uptonsteel Grace Road. “It’s a fresh start,” Franklin says. “Last season is gone - it’s about what we do now.” For returning players, it’s a chance to build consistency.

For new faces, an opportunity to make their mark. And for Leicestershire Women, it’s the next step in a journey that continues to gather momentum. “We’ve laid the foundations,” Franklin says. “Now it’s about building on them.”