Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Ireland selection ‘a huge honour’ for Dalzell

Dalziel’s parents were the first people she told about her recall.

It is her father, Alan, who she credits with first sparking her interest in the sport.

“My father was always passionate about cricket.

“He would have my brother and I play in the back of the house as kids.

“I joined Braidy Cricket Club when I was 11 and played cricket with some of the boys and then I started playing men’s cricket when I was about 13.”

Cricket as a career was never a possibility for Dalzell, but that changed in 2019 when the first part-time contracts were awarded to women by Cricket Ireland.

Among the first recipients was now Ireland’s World Cup captain, Gabby Lewis.

Dalziel said that when she was growing up, there was a lack of seeing female role models in cricket.

“I just played for fun, and I was very accepted into both the boys and men’s teams in my post.

“I didn’t feel any different. But there was also very little coverage of women’s cricket in the broadcast media at that time. I feel it has changed dramatically now.

“The growth of girls’ cricket in the North West for example has been tremendous and I believe the improved coverage of the sport is helping to propel the next generation of young female cricketers.

“If someone younger can see me and know I’ve run the course locally – I hope it helps them know they can do it too.”

Dalziel also praised North West Cricket Association chief executive Catherine Ruff for her work in developing the sport for women and girls.

“Catherine has made huge changes by introducing younger girls’ leagues which are now thriving and growing every year.

“You can see the difference cricket has made in the North West and coming through the women’s leagues and the clubs are really seeing the benefits.”