Gaby Lewis returns to Lancashire Women for 2026 Metro Bank One Day Cup title defence
Lancashire Cricket is delighted to confirm that Ireland captain Gaby Lewis will return as the Club’s overseas player for the 2026 Women’s Metro Bank One Day Cup, as the Red Rose begin the defence of last season’s historic title.
Lewis played a pivotal role in Lancashire’s 2025 triumph, delivering a series of influential performances during the closing stages of the competition. Her impact peaked in the final, where she struck an unbeaten century, guiding Lancashire to victory with a commanding 141 not out.
Across five appearances at the business end of the tournament, the 25-year-old amassed 272 runs at an average of 68, including a further half-century alongside her match-winning hundred in the final.
Since making her debut for Ireland at just 13 years old, Lewis has amassed close to 4,000 runs in international cricket, with two centuries and 33 half-centuries across formats.
Lewis will be available for the majority of Lancashire’s 2026 Metro Bank One Day Cup campaign, with the exception of periods when she is on international duty with Ireland. She is set to link up with the squad ahead of the Club’s season opener against Durham at Banks Home Riverside on 11 April.
Speaking on her return, Gaby Lewis said: “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.
“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.”
Director of Women’s Cricket, David Thorley, added: “Gaby’s impact last season was outstanding, both on and off the field. 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.
“We are looking forward to welcoming her back to Emirates Old Trafford in April and seeing her influence over a longer period of time provides us with a significant boost ahead of the campaign.”