Two members of the Northamptonshire Steelbacks Women squad, Amelia Kemp and Bethan Robinson, have been signed by Tier 1 academies ahead of the 2026 season.
Joining Yorkshire and Warwickshire respectively, both players will continue their development by playing for the Steelbacks in Tier 2 this year.
Both players were rewarded for standout 2025 seasons where they played crucial roles in the T20 and 50 over sides. All-rounder, Kemp, struck at a strike rate of 104.6 with the bat in the Blast, the second highest in the team. With the ball, she averaged 21 and picked up seven wickets in six matches with best figures of 3/29.
Reviewing the 2025 season and ambitions for next year, Kemp quoted:
“Last season with Northamptonshire was a big success for us as a team. Although we didn’t quite get over the line at the end of the season, reaching the One Day Cup semi-finals was so important for us to establish ourselves as real competitors in Tier 2 cricket.
“I think it shows on the pitch how well we get on as a group and I’m really looking forward to getting back on the field with the girls to see what we can do this year.”
“Signing with a Tier 1 academy is very exciting for me and I’m eager to get going this summer. I really appreciate all the support I got from Northamptonshire over the last year to make this opportunity possible and helping me to grow and improve as a player.”
Bethan Robinson impressed with the new ball in the One Day Cup, taking 7 wickets in just four innings, with best figures of 4/43 and averaging 18.4 as the Steelbacks reached the semi-finals. The opening bowler is thrilled to have been recognised by Warwickshire and sees 2026 as an exciting opportunity to continue her cricket development.
“I’ve had an amazing first year at Northamptonshire. It felt like we came together as a team quickly and we’ve put ourselves in a strong position going into this season. I’m very grateful for the platform Tier 2 cricket gives players and the opportunity to play at professional grounds for a great club has been brilliant,” Robinson said.
“Rips (David Ripley) has been really supportive throughout the process. The attitude at Northamptonshire has given me the tools for a smooth transition across to the academy.”
Northamptonshire Steelbacks Women’s season gets underway at Wantage Road against Kent Spitfires Women on Sunday 12th April in the Metro Bank One Day Cup.