Ireland have unveiled a 14-member squad for their upcoming three-match Women’s ODI series against England, with the first game scheduled to take place in Leicester on September 1. The series will form part of the ICC Women’s Championship 2025-29 cycle, adding significant importance to the 50-over contests as both teams look to strengthen their position in the competition.
Key players return to Ireland’s ODI setup
Ireland have bolstered their squad with the return of several players who impressed during the recent domestic season. All-rounders Georgina Dempsey and Alice Tector, alongside off-spinner Lara McBride, have earned recalls after featuring prominently in the Women’s Super 50 Series. The trio’s performances in domestic cricket have given Ireland another layer of depth heading into a challenging assignment against England. Dempsey and Tector provide valuable options with both bat and ball, while McBride adds another specialist spin option to the bowling attack.
Arlene Kelly and Tector have also returned to the international setup after recovering from their respective injuries. The pair’s availability will be a welcome boost for Ireland as they prepare for a busy period of international cricket. Those selected for the tour are expected to feature in Ireland’s warm-up fixture against an ECB Development XI in Leicester on August 29, two days before the ODI series gets underway.
Several players miss out through injury
While Ireland have welcomed back important players, the squad has also been affected by injuries. Alana Dalzell, Sarah Forbes and Aimee Maguire have not been considered for the England series as they continue to deal with their respective injury setbacks. Their absence will leave Ireland without several familiar options, but the selectors have opted for a balanced squad featuring a mix of experienced campaigners and players who have recently impressed at domestic level.
The upcoming series will provide the returning players with an opportunity to make an immediate impact, while Ireland’s younger members will be keen to establish themselves against one of the strongest teams in women’s cricket.
Gaby Lewis to lead familiar-looking squad
Gaby Lewis will once again captain Ireland, providing continuity at the top of the team. The squad includes several established names who have played important roles for Ireland across formats, including wicketkeeper-batter Amy Hunter, experienced all-rounder Orla Prendergast, Leah Paul and Cara Murray.
Christina Coulter Reilly, Louise Little and Jane Maguire add further experience to the group, while Kia McCartney and Rebecca Stokell offer additional batting and bowling options. The presence of players such as Dempsey, McBride and Tector also gives the side greater flexibility.
With Championship points at stake, Ireland will face a demanding test against England. The series will not only offer an opportunity to challenge a top side but also allow Ireland to assess their returning players and build momentum in the ongoing Women’s Championship cycle.
Ireland squad for England tour
Gaby Lewis (c), Christina Coulter Reilly, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Jane Maguire, Lara McBride, Kia McCartney, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell, Alice Tector
This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.
