Laura Delany to lead 15-member Ireland squad against Scotland

“There is great anticipation to see how this young side will perform, given the exceptional performances in the Super Series over recent weeks,” said Carrie Archer, chair of national selectors.

“With an average age of less than 21, it is one of the youngest squads we have ever selected, but one full of talent and potential. With a big year ahead, it is vital that these players get as much competitive cricket as they can, and I have no doubt they will require little additional motivation to perform in this long-awaited return to the international arena.”

Ava Canning and Georgina Dempsey have received their maiden call-ups, so too, Amy Hunter and Jane Maguire, who were named in the squad late last year. However, the series then couldn’t go ahead because of COVID restrictions.

“With a number of players still overseas and unavailable, there is an opportunity now for several emerging players to make their mark ahead of the two world cup qualifier tournaments later in the year,” added Archer. “We have selected five players who may make their debuts. They are all here on merit, after impressing in the Super Series, and should take the confidence of knowing this into the series.”

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Cara Murray and Rachel Delaney, both of whom last played a T20I in 2018, also earned a recall. While Delaney has scored a half century in the ongoing Super Series, Murray has picked up five wickets so far.

“We’ll be going into the Scotland series off the back of a solid build-up in training and a competitive Super Series to date,” said Ed Joyce, Head Coach of Ireland.

“It’s great to see players being rewarded for their performances in the Super Series. It goes to show all players that there is a defined pathway to international cricket and that performances are being recognised with higher honours.”

“There is no doubt that international cricket is yet another step up for the players, but I know that all of those selected are desperate to get out there and show what they can do on the world stage.”

The four matches will be played at Stormont, Belfast, with the first T20I to be played on Sunday (May 23).

Squad: Laura Delany (c), Ava Canning, Rachel Delaney, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Shauna Kavanagh, Gaby Lewis, Jane Maguire, Lara Maritz, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Celeste Raack, Jenny Sparrow, Rebecca Stokell