Isobel Joyce steps down as captain of Ireland Women

Isobel Joyce has stepped down as captain of Ireland Women following the team's World Twenty20 exit.

The 32-year-old all-rounder has won 132 caps in all formats for Ireland since her debut in 1999 and has captained her country a record 62 times.

Joyce, who intends to continue playing for Ireland, said: “It’s been an honour and a privilege to captain my country for the last six years.

“I’ve played cricket for Ireland for over half of my life and while I have not decided when I will call time on my playing career, I feel it’s time to step aside and help a younger leader to learn the role before I do eventually retire.

“I’m looking forward to focusing on my own cricket for the twilight of my playing career and hopefully helping the team qualify for another 50 over World Cup, 16 years after I played in my first one.”

Ireland, having progressed to the finals through qualifying, were knocked out of the World Twenty20 in India at the group stage after losing all four of their matches, Joyce finishing as the team’s top scorer with 82 runs.

Ireland are set to select their new captain in the coming weeks.