Ireland captain Gaby Lewis has described qualification for the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup as hugely emotional and deeply meaningful for her team, particularly after the disappointment of missing out on the previous edition two years ago.
Ireland secured their place at the global qualifiers in Nepal with a commanding 62-run victory over Thailand on Sunday, a result that confirmed their progression and capped off an impressive campaign.
Speaking after qualification was confirmed, Lewis admitted the achievement carried extra weight because of past heartbreak.
“We’re all absolutely delighted,” she said. “Not qualifying for the last World Cup left scars. That was really hard for the group, so there were definitely nerves coming into this tournament. But we prepared incredibly well, and to get the job done means so much to everyone.”
Ireland arrived in Nepal knowing what was at stake. The memory of narrowly missing out last time added pressure, but Lewis believes the squad handled expectations maturely and showed significant growth.
The 24-year-old captain led from the front throughout the competition and was deservedly named batter of the tournament. Across Ireland’s seven matches, Lewis averaged 39 runs, highlighting her consistency at the top of the order. Her standout innings was a fluent 73 against Bangladesh, even though it came in a losing effort.
In recent seasons, Ireland’s success in the T20 format has often revolved around the batting contributions of what many fans refer to as the team’s “Big Three” — Lewis, Orla Prendergast and Amy Hunter. Once again, that trio played a major role with the bat in Nepal.
However, Lewis was quick to point out that this World Cup qualification was built just as much on Ireland’s bowling strength as their batting depth.
Ireland’s bowlers produced two outstanding defensive performances during the Super Six stage, dismissing the Netherlands for just 45 runs and restricting Thailand to 59. Those results underlined the growing quality and variety within the squad’s bowling attack.
“It was brilliant,” Lewis said. “We have some really high-quality bowlers in this team. What impressed me most was seeing different players step up in different games. It wasn’t the same bowler carrying us all the way through — it was a true squad effort.”
The captain highlighted how that balance between batting and bowling has made Ireland a more complete T20 side, capable of adapting to different opponents and conditions.
With qualification secured, attention now turns to the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will be held in England from 12 June. While Ireland do not yet know their group-stage opponents or venues, Lewis admits the possibility of playing at iconic grounds like Lord’s is an exciting prospect.
“That would be massive,” she said. “To play at Lord’s would be an incredible experience for any cricketer.”
Lewis also believes the location of the tournament could give Ireland a subtle advantage. Playing in England means familiar conditions and shorter travel, which she feels will benefit both players and supporters.
“I think cricket is definitely on the rise in Ireland,” she explained. “The more we can be visible on the world stage, the more interest it creates. Hopefully young girls will come out and watch and feel inspired.”
Ireland enjoyed strong backing from fans during the qualifiers in Nepal, and Lewis expects even greater support in England.
“We had great support out in Nepal, which meant a lot to us,” she said. “In England, it’ll probably feel like the closest thing we’ll ever have to a home World Cup. That’s hugely exciting.”
Another advantage, Lewis believes, is that the squad will not need lengthy acclimatisation camps, as the playing conditions will be similar to those they experience at home.
“In most World Cups, you have to arrive early to adjust to the conditions,” she said. “This time, we’ll be playing in conditions that are very close to what we’re used to in Ireland, which definitely helps.”
Preparation for the tournament will begin early, with Ireland set to take part in a tri-series against Pakistan and West Indies. The series will provide valuable high-level competition and form part of a busy summer schedule for Lewis.
Away from international cricket, Lewis will once again return to Lancashire, where she will play as an overseas professional in the One-Day Cup. She is due to link up with the county side in April and is looking forward to continuing a successful partnership.
Last season, Lewis played a key role in Lancashire’s title-winning campaign, producing a memorable unbeaten 141 against Hampshire in the final at Old Trafford — an innings that underlined her ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
Reflecting on her county experience, Lewis said consistent exposure to elite domestic cricket has been crucial to her development.
“Over the last few years, I really wanted to test myself by playing at a higher standard regularly,” she explained. “It was about getting that opportunity, and I was absolutely delighted when it came.”
Her return to Lancashire this summer is something she is relishing.
“I loved my time there, and I’m thrilled the club has brought me back,” she said. “I can’t wait for what’s ahead — it’s shaping up to be a really exciting summer.”
As Ireland look ahead to the World Cup, Lewis believes the team’s journey reflects the wider growth of women’s cricket in the country. Qualification is not just a sporting milestone, but a statement of progress and ambition.
For Lewis and her team-mates, the pain of missing out two years ago has now been replaced by belief, momentum and a renewed sense of purpose.
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