The Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has approved Sam Topping as a replacement for injured Ireland captain Paul Stirling.
Stirling was ruled out of the tournament after sustaining knee ligament damage while fielding during Ireland’s match against Australia on February 11.
Topping had earlier been named as Stirling’s replacement, subject to formal approval. Under tournament regulations, any replacement player must receive clearance from the Event Technical Committee before being officially added to the squad.
The Event Technical Committee of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 comprises Wasim Khan, ICC General Manager – Cricket (Chair); Gaurav Saxena, ICC General Manager – Events & Corporate Communications and IBC representative; Hemang Amin, Tournament Director and host representative; and Shaun Pollock, Independent nominee.
Stirling’s injury is a significant blow to Ireland, with the experienced opener playing a key role in the team’s T20 setup. (Newswire)