Ireland has called up Jane Maguire to replace Ava Canning, who is out of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 due to a stress fracture in her back. The replacement was approved by the tournament’s technical committee on Wednesday, June 17. Maguire will be available for Ireland’s match against New Zealand Women on Friday, June 19.
Canning missed Ireland’s second match against England, where she was replaced by Louise Little. Despite a strong effort from the Irish bowlers, the team lost to England by four wickets in Southampton. This defeat followed their opening match loss to Scotland Women, leaving Ireland without a win after two games in the tournament.
Maguire’s selection is a positive development for the young pacer, who was at risk of missing the World Cup after a knee injury in early May. A quicker-than-expected recovery has secured her place in the squad, where she will join her sister, Aimee Maguire. The two siblings will be part of Ireland’s pursuit of their first victory in Women’s T20 World Cup history.
Ireland’s campaign started with a 40-run defeat to Scotland, despite Canning’s impressive 3/27 bowling figures. Batter Amy Hunter was the top scorer with 39 runs. In the second match against England, Aimee Maguire and Orla Prendergast took two wickets each, while Prendergast and Little contributed runs; however, other players struggled to perform.
Ireland will play against the White Ferns at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, on June 19, looking to bounce back and achieve a much-needed win.
Ireland squad:
Gaby Lewis (c), Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Aimee Maguire, Jane Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell, Alice Tector