Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Ireland Beat Thailand to Book Spot

Ireland Women defeated Thailand Women by 62 runs to secure their spot in the 2026 ICC Women's T20 World Cup in England and Wales. At Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground, openers Gaby Lewis and Amy Hunter got off to a strong start with the bat after Lewis won the toss. Both sought to skillfully counter Thailand's spin attempt, either with a sweep shot or by using their feet to knock down the ground.

The first two sides to earn a spot in the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup through the Global Qualifiers were Bangladesh and the Netherlands on Wednesday. Bangladesh won all seven of the tournament's games and finished first in the Super Six standings after the Qualifiers. The Netherlands secured the fourth slot to earn a spot in its first Women's T20 World Cup, while Ireland and Scotland finished second and third, respectively, on the Super Six standings.

Ireland's Stand in Women’s T20 World Cup 2026:

Arlene Kelly, who previously achieved the milestone of 100 caps for Ireland across formats, was named Player of the Match. Additionally, Louise Little earned 50 caps for her nation. With 276 runs, Irish captain Gaby Lewis was also the tournament's leading run scorer.  After the powerplay, Aimee Maguire claimed two wickets, but Kelly's spell (4-7, including two wickets in two balls) was what truly eliminated Thailand from the match, giving Ireland a decisive victory and securing their place in the Women's T20 World Cup in just four months.

The 12-team roster is completed with the Netherlands, Bangladesh, Ireland, and Scotland joining the automatic qualifiers, which also include England, Australia, India, New Zealand, South Africa, West Indies, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. On June 12, England and Wales will host the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026.

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