Alice Tector replaces injured Laura Delany in Ireland Women’s T20 World Cup squad

Ireland Women have made a late change to their squad for the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup, with 18-year-old Alice Tector drafted into the team as an injury replacement for experienced all-rounder Laura Delany.

The injury to Delany is considered serious enough to rule her out of not only the World Cup but also Ireland’s preparatory tri-series involving the West Indies and Pakistan, which begins on May 28. However, Cricket Ireland has not yet officially disclosed the exact nature of her injury.

Major setback for Ireland

Laura Delany’s absence comes as a huge blow for Ireland ahead of one of their biggest tournaments in recent years.

The 33-year-old is Ireland’s most experienced women’s T20 international player and has been a key figure in the team for more than a decade. Delany has represented Ireland in 132 T20I matches, scoring 1659 runs and picking up 96 wickets.

Her all-round ability, leadership experience and calm presence in pressure situations made her one of Ireland’s most valuable players heading into the World Cup.

Delany has consistently contributed with both bat and ball and was expected to play a crucial role against stronger teams in the tournament.

Alice Tector gets big opportunity

With Delany unavailable, Ireland have turned to teenage batter Alice Tector, who is yet to make her T20 International debut.

Despite her young age, Tector is regarded as one of the promising talents in Irish women’s cricket. She has already played five ODIs for Ireland since making her international debut against Sri Lanka women’s national cricket team in 2024.

The upcoming T20 World Cup now presents a massive opportunity for the teenager to establish herself on the international stage.

Tector has impressed selectors with her temperament and maturity, especially after overcoming injury struggles during the past year.

Cricket Ireland backs young star

Cricket Ireland Director of High Performance Graeme West expressed disappointment over Delany’s injury while also showing confidence in Tector’s ability.

In an official statement, West said:

“We are all devastated for Laura — she’s one of the toughest competitors that has ever played for Ireland Women and we wish her well with her recovery.”

He also praised Tector’s attitude after returning from injuries earlier in her career.

“Alice herself has had to deal with injuries over the last 12 months, but has shown a great temperament since returning to play in 2026.”

Tough World Cup group for Ireland

Ireland face a difficult challenge in the Women’s T20 World Cup after being placed in a strong group alongside hosts England women’s national cricket team, West Indies women’s national cricket team, New Zealand women’s national cricket team, Sri Lanka women’s national cricket team and Scotland women’s national cricket team.

Ireland will begin their campaign against Scotland at Old Trafford Cricket Ground on June 13.

The group is considered one of the toughest in the tournament, with several established cricket nations competing for qualification to the knockout stages.

Gaby Lewis to lead side

The Ireland squad will be captained by Gaby Lewis, while all-rounder Orla Prendergast has been named vice-captain.

Ireland’s squad includes a mix of experienced players and young talent as they look to make an impact on the global stage.

Players like Amy Hunter, Leah Paul, Arlene Kelly and Cara Murray are expected to play key roles during the tournament.

Important moment for Irish women’s cricket

The Women’s T20 World Cup represents another important step in the growth of Irish women’s cricket.

Although Laura Delany’s injury is a significant setback, the inclusion of Alice Tector highlights Ireland’s focus on developing young talent for the future.

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For Tector, the tournament could become a career-defining opportunity if she gets a chance in the playing XI.

Ireland Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad

Gaby Lewis (captain), Orla Prendergast (vice-captain), Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Aimee Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Rebecca Stokell, Alice Tector.