Scotland have announced a balanced 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England and Wales, with captain Kathryn Bryce set to lead the side into its second successive appearance at the tournament.
The squad combines experienced internationals with emerging young talent and is headlined by the return of spinner Kirstie Gordon, who becomes available for Scotland selection for the first time since 2017 after previously representing England internationally. Gordon’s inclusion is viewed as a major boost for Scotland ahead of a challenging group-stage campaign featuring hosts England, Ireland, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies.
Head coach Craig Wallace admitted the selection process had been one of the toughest in recent years due to the rapid growth of women’s cricket in Scotland and the increasing competition for places. “It was hugely difficult to select a fifteen, but that’s testament to the growth and success of the women’s game in Scotland over the last few years. The depth we have now to choose from is incredible and every selection is enjoyable, but really tough. I think we’ve got a really good balance in the squad in terms of what we think we need to succeed in this tournament,” Wallace said.
The return of Gordon adds significant international experience to Scotland’s spin attack. The left-arm spinner currently plays for The Blaze in England’s domestic setup and has previously played at the highest level for England before committing her future to Scotland. “Kirstie’s decision to come back home and choose to play for Scotland again shows just how far the team have progressed, and it’s great for our players to have the chance to play with one of the best in the world,” Wallace added.
Scotland have also rewarded several young players following strong performances at age-group level. Three members of the Scotland squad that competed at the 2025 ICC Women’s U19 World Cup have been included in the senior World Cup squad. Wicketkeeper-batter Pippa Sproul, bowler Gabriella Fontenla and uncapped pace bowler Maisie Maceira all earned selection after impressive recent development.
Wallace particularly praised Maceira’s improvement over the past 18 months, especially since the U19 World Cup earlier this year. “Maisie should be so proud of her selection, given the effort and improvements she’s made over the last eighteen months, especially since that U19 World Cup. She’s improved her skills, fielding and pace and professionalism in that time, so she deserves her place for those reasons,” he said.
Scotland’s squad continues to revolve around the Bryce sisters, with Kathryn Bryce captaining the side and wicketkeeper-batter Sarah Bryce remaining one of the team’s key players. The squad also includes experienced internationals such as Abtaha Maqsood, Katherine Fraser, Rachel Slater and Ailsa Lister.
Scotland will open their World Cup campaign against Ireland women’s national cricket team at Old Trafford Cricket Ground on 13 June before facing England, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and West Indies later in the group stage.
Scotland Squad for ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026:
Kathryn Bryce (C), Chloe Abel, Olivia Bell, Sarah Bryce, Darcey Carter, Priyanaz Chatterji, Gabriella Fontenla, Katherine Fraser, Kirstie Gordon, Ailsa Lister, Maisie Maceira, Abtaha Maqsood, Megan McColl, Rachel Slater, Pippa Sproul
Ahead of the World Cup, Scotland will also host a T20I tri-series in Edinburgh featuring Bangladesh and Netherlands. The tournament will mark Scotland Women’s first home fixtures since 2022 and is expected to play an important role in preparations for the World Cup.
Squad for the T20I Tri-series:
Kathryn Bryce (C), Chloe Abel, Olivia Bell, Sarah Bryce, Darcey Carter, Priyanaz Chatterji, Gabriella Fontenla, Katherine Fraser, Kirstie Gordon, Ailsa Lister, Maisie Maceira, Abtaha Maqsood, Megan McColl, Niamh Robertson-Jack, Rachel Slater, Ellen Watson
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