The Women's Emerging Nations Trophy brings ten national teams together in Ajman, with a two-stage route to the final. The expanded field includes five Full Members and five other participants, giving the competition a broader international mix than its inaugural edition.
Two groups and a Super Six
Group A contains Ireland, Sri Lanka, Scotland, Papua New Guinea and the United Arab Emirates. Bangladesh, Pakistan, Zimbabwe, the Netherlands and Thailand make up Group B. Three teams from each group advance, so qualification depends on securing a place in the top three rather than simply avoiding the bottom position.
The next stage brings together the six qualifiers. Each side faces the three qualifying teams from the opposite group, before the top two progress to the final. That structure makes the opening phase important while also creating a second set of opponents for the teams that advance.
Ireland's opportunity for a new generation
Amy Hunter takes the vice-captaincy alongside captain Gaby Lewis. Brisbane Heat's Women's Big Bash League commitments keep Orla Prendergast out of this Ireland selection. Abbi Harrison and Zara Craig are among the younger players receiving an opportunity, with Laura Delany and Lara Maritz also part of the selection.
For Ireland, the competition offers a return to international T20 cricket after a period with a stronger one-day focus. The practical test is how a relatively inexperienced group responds when every position in the qualifying table matters. Selection alone is only the starting point: players now have a chance to turn that opportunity into performances.
Ireland's announced 14-player squad
Gaby Lewis (captain), Zara Craig, Alana Dalzell, Laura Delany, Georgina Dempsey, Abbi Harrison, Amy Hunter, Louise Little, Aimee Maguire, Jane Maguire, Lara Maritz, Lara McBride, Kia McCartney and Cara Murray.
This is the announced tournament squad, not a match-day XI. Match selections can differ, and a player's inclusion here does not mean she will feature in every fixture.
According to the ICC tournament guide and Ireland preview, the published details explain the competition format and selection. The group photograph accompanies the official tournament guide; its exact capture date is not stated.
