Ireland have made one change to their squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, with 18-year-old Alice Dektor replacing veteran all-rounder Laura Delaney through injury.
The nature of Delaney’s injury has not yet been released but is serious enough to rule her out of a warm-up tri-series between the West Indies women’s cricket team and the Pakistan women’s cricket team starting on May 28.
Delaney’s absence is a significant setback for Cricket Ireland. The 33-year-old is a veteran of Ireland Women’s T20 Internationals having played 132 matches.
He has scored 1,659 runs and taken 96 wickets in the format, highlighting his major all-round contribution to the side.
Tector is yet to make his T20 international debut but has already represented Ireland in five ODIs since his debut against Sri Lanka in 2024.
Cricket Ireland’s director of high performance Graeme West expressed his sympathy following the latest injury setback and described it as a huge blow to the team.
He praised Delaney’s importance to the team and highlighted the resilience shown within the group despite a growing list of injury concerns.
After overcoming his own injury setback last year and making a strong return to competitive cricket in 2026, West further praised Tector’s professionalism and mental strength.
“We are all devastated for Laura – she is one of the toughest competitors to ever play for Ireland Women and we wish her a speedy recovery,” said West.
“Alice has had to deal with injuries over the past 12 months but has shown great character since returning to play in 2026.”
In the tournament, Ireland have been placed in a challenging group with hosts England Women’s Cricket Team, West Indies, New Zealand Women’s Cricket Team, Sri Lanka Women’s Cricket Team and Scotland Women’s Cricket Team.
They open their campaign against Scotland at Old Trafford on June 13.
Updated Ireland squad for 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup:
Gaby Lewis (c), Orla Prendergast (vc), Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Aimee Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Rebecca Toctorell.
Group-level devices: