Ireland has brought in Jane Maguire as a replacement for Ava Canning, who unfortunately has to sit out the Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 due to a stress fracture in her back. The tournament’s technical committee gave the green light for this change on Wednesday, June 17, and Maguire is now set to be available for Ireland’s upcoming match against New Zealand Women on Friday, June 19. Canning had already missed Ireland’s second group-stage game against England, where Louise Little stepped in for her. Despite a valiant effort from the Irish bowlers, the team suffered a four-wicket loss to the hosts in Southampton. This defeat came on the heels of their opening match against Scotland Women, leaving Ireland still searching for their first win after two games in the tournament. Maguire’s return is a bright spot for the young pacer, who was at risk of missing the World Cup entirely after a knee injury sidelined her during domestic cricket in early May. Also Read | Gill-Kishan Create Unique ODI Record No Indian Pair, Including Rohit-Kohli, Has Ever Managed Thankfully, her recovery has been quicker than expected, allowing her to join the squad alongside her sister, Aimee Maguire. Together, they’ll aim to help Ireland achieve their first-ever victory in Women’s T20 World Cup history. Ireland kicked off their campaign with a 40-run loss to Scotland, although Canning shone with impressive bowling figures of 3/27. Batter Amy Hunter led the scoring with 39 runs in that match. In the second game against England, Aimee Maguire and Orla Prendergast each took two wickets, while Prendergast and Little contributed with the bat, though the rest of the batting lineup struggled to make a mark. Next up, Ireland will take on the White Ferns at The Rose Bowl in Southampton on June 19, hoping to turn things around and keep their hopes alive with a crucial win.