Ireland secured a spot at the 2026 T20 World Cup after a decisive 62-run win over Thailand in Nepal on Sunday. Captain Gaby Lewis called the achievement “so much” after the side missed the previous edition. Lewis, who topped the qualifiers as batter of the tournament with a 39‑run average, celebrated the hard‑earned qualification.

The Irish batting trio—Lewis, Orla Prendergast and Amy Hunter—continued to dominate, but the bowling attack proved decisive, restricting the Netherlands to 45 and Thailand to 59 in Super Six clashes. Lewis’ 73 against Bangladesh highlighted her form, while the varied pace and spin options gave the side a balanced, all‑round performance.

Looking ahead, Ireland will fine‑tune at a tri‑series against Pakistan and West Indies before the World Cup kicks off in England on 12 June. Lewis hopes playing at Lords will boost the sport’s profile at home, while she returns to Lancashire for the One‑Day Cup, keeping her match‑sharp for a busy summer.