Ireland batter Rebecca Stokell suspended after failed drug test

Ireland cricketer Rebecca Stokell has stepped away from the team following a positive test result during the 2026 women’s T20 World Cup.

Stokell, a middle-order batter, returned an adverse finding on June 23. That was the same day Ireland lost to Sri Lanka in Bristol. The International Cricket Council, the sport’s governing body, has not yet disclosed the specific substance that triggered the test.

The player says the failed test resulted from the use of prescription medication. She stated the substance was “not performance related in any way.” However, she acknowledged that she did not follow the required regulations.

Stokell admitted to the violation on October 23. She began a voluntary suspension on that date while the ICC completes its investigation.

“I fully accept my mistake and have voluntarily entered into a period of suspension ahead of the findings being returned,” Stokell said. “While this was not performance related in any way, I understand that I am responsible for following the anti-doping guidelines and I hope that I can be back playing for Ireland as soon as possible.”

Cricket Ireland director of high performance Graeme West said a longer suspension is likely. He noted that the board provided appropriate support to Stokell. West added that the incident serves as a reminder to all international players that anti-doping rules protect both the sport and the athletes.

Because her suspension started in October, Stokell was eligible to play in the final group game of the T20 World Cup. Ireland secured a first win of the tournament in that match. She also played in later series against the West Indies and England during the summer.