Gaby Lewis returns at the helm as Ireland’s women’s cricket team gears up for what is expected to be an intense white-ball series against their powerful neighbours England. Having recovered from a quad strain, Lewis is Ireland’s leading run-scorer in T20Is with experience galore and a proven track record. In the past, she had even led Ireland to their historic first-ever ODI win over Sri Lanka. The return of Lewis is a big boost for the team, all the more so with the absence of their regular captain Laura Delany.
Delany, who has been ruled out due to a ligament injury in her ankle, sustained during the second T20I against Sri Lanka, will surely be missed for her leadership and experience. An injury to her leaves a huge hole, but the team remains hopeful under the captaincy of Lewis as they go into the next three days to face the strong England side.
Adding to the excitement is Alice Tector, handed over her maiden T20I call-up after she debuted in ODIs against Sri Lanka. Sister of Ireland men’s batter Harry Tector, Alice will likely bring fresh enthusiasm into the group. Her inclusion is a vote of confidence by selectors in developing young talent: the average age of the squad is less than 22 years.
The other in-form player, Una Raymond-Hoey, is back on the team after a year’s break from international cricket. The batting all-rounder sustained an injury in her comeback match against Sri Lanka. However, she has recovered fully and finds her place in both ODI and T20I squads against England. She gives depth to the batting lineup, and her experience will be useful in the high-stake series.
The Ireland squad is a mix of youth and experience, with selectors putting their faith in Gaby Lewis for leadership. The team will play three ODIs in Belfast and then three T20Is in Dublin; the ODI matches form part of the Women’s Championship. Ireland now meet up with England, and for the supporters, it is time to get behind the girls as they seek to put in some good performances on home soil.
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