Ireland Announces Squad For The ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025

Ireland Cricket has unveiled its 15-member squad for the highly anticipated ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup, set to take place in Malaysia in January 2025. This marks the second edition of the tournament, where 16 teams will compete for the prestigious title. For Ireland, it is a golden opportunity to showcase their growth and talent in women’s cricket on the global stage. With a well-balanced squad featuring experienced campaigners and promising young talents, Ireland is keen to make a strong statement.

Amy Hunter: Leading from the Front

Amy Hunter, a rising star in Irish cricket, has been named captain for the tournament. Known for her composure under pressure and exceptional batting skills, Hunter’s leadership is expected to inspire her teammates. The 19-year-old has already made a mark in senior international cricket, bringing valuable experience to her role.

Supporting Hunter in the leadership group are Niamh MacNulty and Freya Sargent, who have been appointed vice-captains. Both players bring a wealth of talent and tactical acumen, ensuring a cohesive and well-guided unit. The leadership trio is expected to play a pivotal role in Ireland’s campaign as they navigate the challenges of a high-stakes tournament.

Building Confidence and Gaining Experience

The squad’s selection is a testament to the depth of talent in Ireland’s women’s cricket. Players were chosen based on their impressive performances in domestic cricket and their potential to shine on the international stage. The team management, led by head coach Glenn Querl, is optimistic about their chances despite a challenging preparation phase.

Speaking about the tournament, Querl highlighted the importance of the Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in shaping the future of Irish cricket.

“The opportunity to compete in the Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia is incredibly exciting for our players. It marks a significant milestone in their cricketing journey. Some players were part of the inaugural tournament in 2023. This experience will be invaluable as they support the younger players through this journey,” Querl remarked.

Ireland’s recent tour of South Africa served as a crucial preparation phase. While the results did not favor them, the experience gained proved instrumental. The team faced tough opponents in challenging conditions, offering valuable lessons in resilience and adaptability.

“Each match in South Africa provided insights that have strengthened our team dynamics. We firmly believe that these experiences have united us and will propel us to new heights. The potential within this group is immense, and we are eager to showcase our growth on the global stage,” Querl added.

The Squad: A Blend of Experience and Youth

Ireland’s 15-member squad features a well-rounded mix of seasoned players and emerging talent, underscoring the depth of talent in the country’s women’s cricket pipeline.

Ireland Under-19 Women’s Squad:

Amy Hunter (Captain): A natural leader and a gifted batter, Hunter is Ireland’s driving force.
Abbi Harrison: A consistent performer with the bat and in the field.
Jennifer Jackson: A versatile all-rounder who offers stability to the middle order.
Niamh MacNulty (Vice-Captain): A dependable player with a calm head under pressure.
Aimee Maguire: Known for her sharp cricketing instincts and agility in the field.
Lara McBride: A promising talent who can deliver under pressure.
Kia McCartney: A dynamic player with the potential to turn games around.
Ellie McGee: Brings control and precision to the bowling attack.
Julie McNally: A rising star in Irish cricket, excelling in her role.
Lucy Neely: A batter with the ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed.
Freya Sargent (Vice-Captain): A key bowler and an influential leader on the field.
Millie Spence: Adds variety to the bowling unit with her skills.
Annabel Squires: A consistent performer known for her all-round abilities.
Alice Tector: A dynamic batter capable of adapting to different game situations.
Alice Walsh: Provides depth and versatility to the squad.

Reserves:

Travelling Reserve: Rebecca Lowe
Non-Travelling Reserves: Síbha Bhoja, Ally Boucher, Genevieve Morrissey

Key Players to Watch

Amy Hunter:

As captain and one of the most experienced players in the squad, Hunter will be central to Ireland’s campaign. Her ability to lead from the front with the bat will be crucial in setting the tone for the team’s performances.

Freya Sargent:

Sargent’s dual role as vice-captain and a key bowler makes her indispensable. Her control in the middle overs and knack for taking wickets will be vital in restricting oppositions.

Alice Tector:

Tector’s dynamic batting and ability to perform under pressure make her a player to watch. She adds versatility to Ireland’s lineup, capable of adapting to various situations.

Aiming High in Malaysia

The ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup presents a unique challenge for young cricketers, testing their skills and temperament on an international platform. For Ireland, this is an opportunity to not only compete but also to demonstrate their progress in women’s cricket. The tournament will feature 16 teams, offering a diverse mix of styles and strategies.

Ireland has been placed in a competitive group, where every match will require focus and execution. With Malaysia’s conditions expected to favor spinners, the Irish squad’s adaptability and all-round strength will be put to the test.

Development of Women’s Cricket in Ireland

Ireland’s participation in the Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup reflects the country’s growing commitment to women’s cricket. The focus on nurturing young talent and providing them with international exposure is yielding results. Programs aimed at developing grassroots cricket have laid a solid foundation, with players like Amy Hunter emerging as role models for the next generation.

“This tournament is more than just a competition; it’s an opportunity to inspire young girls across Ireland to take up cricket and dream big,” Querl emphasized.

Looking Ahead

As Ireland embarks on their journey to Malaysia, the team carries the hopes of a nation eager to see its young cricketers excel. The ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup is not just a tournament; it’s a stepping stone for these players, offering invaluable experience that will shape their cricketing careers.

The squad’s blend of youth and experience, combined with their preparation and determination, positions them as a team to watch. For Ireland, the stage is set, and the time to shine is now.

“We are ready to take on the challenge and showcase the immense potential of this team,” concluded Hunter, brimming with confidence and optimism.

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