Ireland Announces 15-Member Squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Stirling Returns as Captain
Ireland Cricket has unveiled its 15-player lineup for the upcoming mega tournament in Sri Lanka and India. Paul Stirling, the team’s leading run-scorer in T20 internationals, will captain the side once again, with Lorcan Tucker serving as vice-captain. As fans gear up for another thrilling edition of the T20 World Cup 2026, Ireland aims to bounce back stronger after a disappointing 2024 campaign.
The Complete Ireland Squad for T20 World Cup 2026
The Irish selectors have announced a balanced 15-member squad that blends experience with fresh talent:
Paul Stirling (Captain) | Lorcan Tucker (Vice-Captain)
- Mark Adair
- Ross Adair
- Ben Calitz
- Curtis Campher
- Gareth Delany
- George Dockrell
- Matthew Humphreys
- Josh Little
- Barry McCarthy
- Harry Tector
- Tim Tector
- Ben White
- Craig Young
Out of the 15 players selected, 12 were part of Ireland’s previous T20 World Cup campaign. The three new faces joining the squad are Tim Tector, Ben Calitz, and Matthew Humphreys, bringing fresh energy and skills to the Irish setup.
Ireland’s T20 World Cup Journey: A Brief History
This marks Ireland’s ninth appearance at the T20 World Cup, making them one of the most consistent Associate nations in the tournament’s history. Their best performances came in 2009 and 2022 when they advanced to the second round, producing memorable upsets against cricketing giants.
In 2022, Ireland shocked the world by defeating both West Indies and England, two former champions of the tournament. These victories not only showcased Ireland’s competitive spirit but also cemented their reputation as dangerous underdogs capable of toppling established teams on any given day.
| Year | Performance | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Super 8s | First second-round appearance |
| 2022 | Super 12s | Beat West Indies & England |
| 2024 | Group Stage | Failed to progress |
What Ireland’s Selector Says About T20 World Cup 2026
Andrew White, Ireland’s National Men’s selector, expressed genuine excitement about the upcoming tournament while acknowledging past shortcomings.
“To say we are very much looking forward to this T20 World Cup is an under-statement. After a memorable 2022 tournament, we probably weren’t at our best in 2024 – and have been waiting to rectify that ever since,” White stated.
He further added confidence about facing tough opposition: “There is no doubt we are in a highly competitive group, which includes playing the tournament hosts but we have played these sides recently enough in previous editions of this tournament, and will go into these matches with no fear.”
Ireland’s recent experience playing in the subcontinent has given them valuable preparation. White emphasized, “We have played a fair bit in this part of the world in the last few years, so we will be in a good position to plan and prepare thoroughly.”
Ireland’s Group B Challenge at T20 World Cup 2026
Ireland finds itself in Group B alongside some formidable opponents:
- Sri Lanka (Tournament Hosts)
- Australia (Five-time ODI World Cup Winners)
- Oman (Associate Nation)
- Zimbabwe (Full Member)
This group presents both challenges and opportunities. While Australia remains the heavyweight favorite, matches against Sri Lanka, Oman, and Zimbabwe are crucial for Ireland’s progression hopes. For complete details on all group fixtures, check out the T20 World Cup 2026 schedule.
Ireland’s Complete T20 World Cup 2026 Fixtures
Here’s when and where Ireland will play their group stage matches:
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Match Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 8, 2026 | Sri Lanka | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo | 7:00 PM IST |
| February 11, 2026 | Australia | R. Premadasa Stadium, Colombo | 3:00 PM IST |
| February 14, 2026 | Oman | Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo | 11:00 AM IST |
| February 17, 2026 | Zimbabwe | Pallekele International Stadium | 3:00 PM IST |
Ireland’s campaign kicks off against hosts Sri Lanka on February 8 at the iconic R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, followed by a high-stakes encounter with Australia just three days later.
Key Players to Watch
Paul Stirling (Captain): Ireland’s highest run-scorer in T20 internationals brings leadership and explosive batting at the top of the order. His ability to provide quick starts will be crucial against quality bowling attacks.
Mark Adair: The pace-bowling all-rounder has been Ireland’s most consistent performer in recent years. His ability to strike early and contribute with the bat makes him invaluable.
Harry Tector: The stylish middle-order batsman has shown remarkable consistency and will be key to stabilizing Ireland’s innings during pressure situations.
Josh Little: The left-arm quick has developed into a genuine wicket-taking threat and will spearhead Ireland’s pace attack.
Warm-Up Matches Before the Tournament
Before diving into the main event, Ireland will face Italy and the UAE in warm-up fixtures. These matches provide valuable match practice and an opportunity to finalize combinations and strategies ahead of their opening clash against Sri Lanka.
Ireland’s Path to Knockout Stages
To advance from Group B, Ireland likely needs to win at least two matches and possibly three, depending on net run rate scenarios. The matches against Oman and Zimbabwe appear as must-win encounters, while an upset against either Sri Lanka or Australia could significantly boost their qualification chances.
The top two teams from each group will progress to the Super 8 stage, where they’ll face teams from other groups in another round-robin format before the knockout stages begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the captain of Ireland for T20 World Cup 2026?
Paul Stirling will lead Ireland as captain, with Lorcan Tucker serving as vice-captain for the tournament in Sri Lanka and India.
How many new players are in Ireland’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad?
Three new players join the squad: Tim Tector, Ben Calitz, and Matthew Humphreys. The remaining 12 members featured in the previous T20 World Cup edition.
When does Ireland play their first match at T20 World Cup 2026?
Ireland begins their campaign on February 8, 2026, against hosts Sri Lanka at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo at 7:00 PM IST.
Which group is Ireland in for T20 World Cup 2026?
Ireland is placed in Group B alongside Sri Lanka, Australia, Oman, and Zimbabwe.
What was Ireland’s best T20 World Cup performance?
Ireland’s best performances came in 2009 and 2022 when they qualified for the second round, defeating former champions West Indies and England in 2022.
Where can I find the complete T20 World Cup 2026 schedule?
You can view all match fixtures, timings, and venues on the comprehensive T20 World Cup 2026 updates page.
