T20 World Cup 2026: 3 Ireland bowlers to watch out for

Ireland have steadily climbed the international cricket ladder over the years, establishing themselves as a side capable of unsettling major teams on the biggest stages. Known for their fearless approach and disciplined bowling attacks, Ireland have often punched above their weight in ICC tournaments. The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 presents yet another opportunity for them to make a strong statement on the global stage, especially against higher-ranked opponents.

With matches set to be played in India and Sri Lanka, conditions are expected to largely favour batters, with flat pitches and quick outfields. However, quality bowlers who can adapt quickly, use variations, and execute under pressure will still have a decisive impact. Ireland’s bowling unit, which blends experience with variety, could play a crucial role in restricting strong batting line-ups and creating match-turning moments. Against this backdrop, identifying the 3 Ireland bowlers to watch out for in T20 World Cup 2026 becomes essential, as these players could define Ireland’s chances of progressing deep into the tournament.

Craig Young

Craig Young is one of several players to have emerged from Ireland’s Under-19 in the early 2010s. Although his career has been interrupted by recurring fitness issues, Young has delivered consistently whenever he has taken the field. Statistically, he ranks among Ireland’s most effective bowlers, boasting an excellent strike rate and a low average compared to many of his contemporaries. 

While he has featured in less than half of Ireland’s ODI matches since his debut, his impact in the shortest format has been significant. In T20 cricket, Young has been highly reliable, claiming 87 wickets in 73 T20Is at an average of 22.21 and an economy rate of 8.12.

Josh Little

Josh Little is a dynamic left-arm seamer who brings pace and aggression to Ireland’s bowling attack. Little made an immediate impact on his ODI debut against England in 2019, showcasing his ability to perform against top-quality opposition. 

Although he made his T20I debut as early as 2016, limited availability delayed his regular inclusion. From 2019 onwards, Little became a consistent presence in the side and was awarded an Emerging Player contract. In 76 T20Is, he has taken 82 wickets at a respectable economy rate of 7.63, making him a key option in both powerplay and death overs.

Mark Adair

Mark Adair is a tall seam-bowling all-rounder from Northern Ireland who brings both depth and control to Ireland’s bowling attack. He made his first-class debut for Warwickshire as a teenager in 2015 and has since gone on to represent Ireland consistently across age-group cricket, the A team, and the senior international side. Over the years, Adair has developed into a reliable performer in pressure situations, capable of contributing with both the new ball and at the death.

Adair is among Ireland’s leading wicket-takers in T20 internationals and remains a key figure in their limited-overs setup. In 97 T20Is, he has picked up an impressive 139 wickets at an average of 19.41, while maintaining a tidy economy rate of 7.74. His ability to generate bounce, use cutters effectively on slower surfaces, and chip in with late-order runs makes him a valuable asset. With conditions in the T20 World Cup 2026 likely to test seamers who can adapt quickly, Adair’s experience and skill set could prove vital to Ireland’s campaign.

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

For more exclusive updates, visit BJSports to access Exclusive News that is only for you, incisive analysis, and updates, and to keep up with all of the latest information on your favorite remarkable cricket players and teams. To ensure you never miss out, join in on the fun right away!