Francesca Sweet Returns to the Foxes on Loan for 2026 Season

Francesca Sweet will return to Leicestershire County Cricket Club for the 2026 season, rejoining the Foxes on loan from Hampshire Cricket.

The talented all-rounder, who impressed during her previous spell at Uptonsteel Grace Road in 2025, will once again be available for selection in Metro Bank and Vitality Blast action - not County Cup - when not representing Hampshire, where she signed a two-year deal earlier this year.

Sweet enjoyed a standout campaign in Leicestershire colours last season, scoring 315 runs at an average just shy of 40 in the Women’s Metro Bank One Day Cup League Two. Her consistency was highlighted by three half-centuries, including a superb 138 off 117 balls against Derbyshire.

In the Vitality Blast League Two, Sweet continued her fine form, finishing as the competition’s second-leading run-scorer with 296 runs. Her contributions played a key role in Leicestershire’s run to Finals Day in Northampton.

Since joining Hampshire, Sweet has already stepped up to Tier 1 cricket, featuring in the Metro Bank One Day Cup, further underlining her development as one of the brightest young talents in the domestic game.

Francesca Sweet said:
"I’m really pleased to be coming back to Leicestershire for the 2026 season. I loved my time with the group last year and it’s a great environment to play and develop in. I’m looking forward to building on what we achieved and contributing as much as I can when I’m available."

Leicestershire Women’s Head Coach Stephen Franklin added:
"We’re delighted to welcome Francesca back to the Foxes. She made a huge impact for us last season, not just with her runs but with her attitude and professionalism. Having her available again gives us real strength in our batting line-up, and we’re excited to see her continue to grow while contributing to the team’s success."

Sweet’s return provides a significant boost to the Foxes squad as they look to build on last season’s progress across both formats.