Stirling to lead Ireland in T20 World Cup

For the second T20 World Cup in a row, veteran batter Paul Stirling will captain Ireland. Twelve of the 15 players selected were part of the squad from the tournament two years ago in the USA and West Indies.

Squad: Paul Stirling (c), Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy, Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker (vc), Ben White, Craig Young

Andrew White, Ireland's national men's team selector, said: "To say we are very much looking forward to this T20 World Cup is an understatement. After a memorable 2022 tournament, we probably weren't at our best in 2024—and have been waiting to rectify that ever since."

New additions include Tim Tector, a 22-year-old top-order batter who bowls off-spin, and 23-year-olds Ben Calitz (left-handed middle-order batter) and Matthew Humphreys (left-arm spinner).

White added: "The last 18 months have tested various tactics, roles, and combinations, and we are happy with the squad's progress. Having 12 players from the 2024 campaign shows a settled core, while integrating new talent like Tim Tector, Ben Calitz, and Matthew Humphreys adds further dynamism."

Ireland are in Group B with co-hosts Sri Lanka, Australia, Oman, and Zimbabwe. Their campaign begins against Sri Lanka on February 8 in Colombo, with all league matches in Sri Lanka.

"We have played quite a bit in this region recently, so we are well-positioned to prepare thoroughly and be ready for the challenge," White concluded.