Bears Women have signed fast bowler Em Arlott and top-order batter Chloe Brewer as their preparations for next year’s inaugural season gathers pace.
Arlott is one of the most prolific wicket takers in the women’s game and consistently one of Central Sparks’ leading performers since they formed in 2020.
The 26-year-old – who had an England call-up in June 2021 and played on an England A tour of Australia later that year – took 17 wickets for Sparks last summer and has already matched that tally this term with four matches remaining.
She’s also been a prominent figure with Birmingham Phoenix, taking 11 wickets in The Hundred this year and scoring 54 runs in 40 balls.
“It’s a new era for women’s cricket and it’s exciting to be part of it with Bears Women,” said Arlott. “I’ve played around Edgbaston for the last four years with Sparks and Phoenix so it’ll be great to call the stadium home.
“It’ll be a proud moment to wear the Bear and Ragged Staff when the season starts next year and I’ll be doing my all for the Club.”
Chloe Brewer is a batting all-rounder who signed for the Sparks ahead of the 2023 campaign after coming through the ranks with South East Stars.
The 22-year-old opening bat has scored 154 runs for Central Sparks, her highest being 37 against Northern Diamonds at Scarborough in June this year.
She said: “I’m thrilled to have signed for the Bears and to continue my stay in the Midlands. There’s a lot of talent in the group. I’m looking forward being part of the team and it’s exciting to think what the future might have in store.”
Bears Women Director of Cricket Laura MacLeod, added: “I’m delighted both Em and Chloe will be on board for next year.
“Em is one of the most intimidating bowlers in the women’s game with her pace, height and movement; she always leaves everything out there on the pitch.
“She’s had experience at the top level and is a proven wicket taker, plus very handy with the bat, and was part of the first ever PCA Team of the Year in 2021
“Chloe started with South East Stars and was top of their batting averages in the inaugural season of the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy. She’s a talented batter, she scored runs against us and that’s when she attracted our attention.
“Chloe also bowls seam so gives us some good alternative bowling options.”
Bears Women are one of eight Tier 1 sides that will play in a revamped national structure from 2025 as part of the England & Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) multi-million pound plan to expand women’s cricket.
To find out more and register your interest in Bears Women visit Bears Women 2025 – Edgbaston
Over 13,500 tickets sold for T20 quarter-final
For a third year in a row, Bears have secured a home Vitality Blast quarter-final against Gloucestershire on Friday 6 September. And tickets are going fast!
Over 13,500 tickets have already been sold. Adults tickets are available for only £20, if purchased in advance, while U16s are £5.
