Stokell begins voluntary suspension after medication reporting breach

Rebecca Stokell has begun a voluntary suspension after an adverse finding in a drug test taken following Ireland's defeat by Sri Lanka at the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup in June, the International Cricket Council confirmed. "I fully accept my mistake and have voluntarily entered into a period of suspension ahead of the findings being returned," said Stokell in a statement.

The 26-year-old was drug tested and "returned an adverse finding for a specified substance", the ICC said. The substance was not performance-enhancing, but Stokell acknowledged she did not adhere to reporting requirements over the use of prescription medication and has started a voluntary period of suspension while waiting for the outcome of an ICC investigation.

Graeme West, the director of high performance at Cricket Ireland, commented on the situation and the support provided, saying: "While we feel very sorry for Rebecca and have provided the level of support appropriate in these circumstances, this incident does serve as a reminder to all our international players that the anti-doping rules are in place to protect both the sport and the athletes themselves. "All players must adhere to the standards and responsibilities expected, and we will continue to educate our players regularly on these matters and why they are important."

Stokell made her international debut in 2017 and has featured 109 times for Ireland across all formats.

"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," Stokell added, as the findings of the ICC investigation are awaited.