Lancashire Women have confirmed a sensational return to their squad for the upcoming 2026 One-Day Cup campaign, with Ireland captain Gaby Lewis set to reprise her role as the club’s overseas star. Lewis, whose heroics were central to Lancashire’s historic triumph last season, will again don the Red Rose colours as they launch their defence of the coveted Women’s One-Day Cup title.
The announcement of Lewis’s return has injected fresh excitement into Lancashire’s 2026 season build-up, especially among fans who witnessed her match-winning display in last year’s final. In the 2025 final at the Utilita Bowl, Lewis delivered one of the most unforgettable innings in women’s domestic cricket, smashing an unbeaten 141 not out to steer Lancashire to victory against Hampshire Women. Her commanding knock, which included crisp boundaries and a calm temperament under pressure, was the cornerstone of the Red Rose’s thrilling six-wicket chase of 289.
Across her five appearances in the business end of the 2025 One-Day Cup, Lewis proved her worth as a reliable match-winner. She scored a total of 272 runs at a tournament-leading average of 68, featuring a half-century and her unforgettable century in the final. Her ability to perform on big occasions helped propel Lancashire Women to their first One-Day Cup success in years and capped what was an already impressive season for the team, which included winning the T20 Women’s County Cup earlier in the summer.
Speaking about her return, Gaby Lewis expressed her delight and anticipation for the 2026 season. “I’m absolutely thrilled to be coming back to Lancashire this summer for another spell at Emirates Old Trafford with an amazing group of people,” Lewis said. “To play my part in the run-in at the end of last season was incredibly special, and the support from the players, staff and fans made it even more memorable. Winning the final the way we did is something I’ll always remember, and I’m excited about the challenge of defending our title together in 2026.”
At just 25 years old, the Ireland captain already has an impressive international resume. Lewis debuted for Ireland at only 13 and has since amassed close to 5,000 international runs across all formats, with multiple centuries and numerous half-centuries. Her strong technique and fearless approach make her a valuable asset both at the county level and on the global stage.
Lancashire’s Director of Women’s Cricket, David Thorley, emphasized the significance of Lewis’s commitment to the club. “Gaby’s impact last season was outstanding, both on and off the field,” Thorley said. “Her century in the final was a defining moment in our campaign, and having her back for our title defence is a huge statement of intent. Her availability for a large part of this summer’s Metro Bank One-Day Cup, around her international commitments with Ireland, was an important factor in bringing her back to the Club this summer.”
Lewis is expected to link up with her Lancashire teammates ahead of the season opener against Durham Women at Banks Home Riverside on 11 April 2026, setting the stage for another enthralling One-Day Cup campaign. While she may miss a handful of matches due to her international duties with Ireland, her presence for the majority of the competition bolsters Lancashire’s ambitions to retain the title and continue their dominant run in women’s domestic cricket.
With her proven match-winning ability, passionate leadership and consistency at the crease, Gaby Lewis’s return is poised to be one of the most compelling storylines of the 2026 women’s domestic season.
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