Ireland target maiden T20 World Cup win in 2026 showdown

Ireland have lost all 17 T20 World Cup matches they have played in four previous tournaments.

Unbeaten streak looms over Ireland Ireland are set to compete in their fifth T20 World Cup, yet victory has remained out of reach in their four prior appearances. The side has finished at the bottom of their group in each tournament edition since 2014, including 2016, 2018 and 2023. Across those four events, Ireland has lost every match they played, totaling 17 defeats. After missing out on qualification in 2024, they return in 2026 aiming to change their fortunes in England. Their opening fixture is against Scotland at Old Trafford on Saturday at 10:30 BST, with the goal of ending their winless streak in the competition. ## Captain targets historic breakthrough Gaby Lewis, Ireland’s captain playing in her fourth World Cup after recovering from a quad injury, highlighted the weight of their unbroken losing run. She stated, "We've yet to have a win in a World Cup and that is a big thing that is hanging over us." Lewis emphasized the team’s desire to secure victories and avoid another qualification battle next cycle. "We really want to push to do that and get a couple of wins and not have to qualify for the next one," she added. ## Scotland clash carries extra meaning A win against Scotland could carry special significance for Ireland, given the Scots denied them a place in the 2024 tournament with a surprise victory. Lewis described the disappointment as "major heartbreak" for the Irish camp. Now, Ireland enters the World Cup after a strong Tri-Nations series at Clontarf, where they defeated both Pakistan and the West Indies. "The series was a great success, we’ve got the results behind us. Confidence is high and that’s exactly what you want going into a World Cup," Lewis noted. ## Tough group awaits in England Ireland, ranked ninth globally, face a challenging Group B in the 2026 tournament alongside hosts England, defending champions New Zealand, Sri Lanka, West Indies and Scotland. The top two from the group will advance to the semi-finals, where they will meet the top two from Group A. Scotland’s last victory over Ireland came by 39 runs in Nepal in January, a result Lewis called a motivating factor. "There’s a big rivalry between us and them. They’ve probably got one up on us at the moment after beating us in Nepal. I think we’re looking good and we’re really excited for it," she said. ## Ireland eyes momentum against Scotland Lewis stressed the importance of a strong start against Scotland, calling it "massive" for building confidence early. She acknowledged Scotland’s roster boost with the addition of Kirsty Gordon, a former England spinner. "They’ve got a new addition in Kirsty Gordon which is a boost for them. If we get the win, then you never know against England," Lewis remarked, hinting at the potential ripple effect of a positive result.