Women’s T20 World Cup: 17 World Cup games, 17 losses, can Ireland break the duck?

It would be fitting if Ireland’s first World Twenty20 win came against the Scots as they had denied the Irish a place in the tournament two years ago as they pulled off a shock victory to reach the tournament for the first time.

Lewis said there was “major heartbreak” in the Ireland camp after that agonizing defeat which forced the squad to watch the World Cup from home.

Ireland are in a good place now and come into the tournament on the back of a fruitful tri-series in Clontarf where they defeated both Pakistan and West Indies.

Lewis added, “The series was a great success, we’ve got the result behind us. The confidence is high and that’s what you want going into the World Cup.”

Lloyd Tennant’s side are ranked ninth in the world but are in a tough Group B that features hosts England, holders New Zealand, Sri Lanka and the West Indies alongside the Scots.

They will face all five teams with the top two from the group advancing to the semi-finals where they will face the top two from Group A.

Scotland won by 39 runs last time out in Nepal in January and Lewis believes their good start in their first game is “huge” in terms of momentum for Ireland.

“There’s a big rivalry between us and them. They’ve probably topped us at the moment after beating us in Nepal. I think we’re looking good and we’re really excited about it.

“They have got a new addition in Kirsty Gordon (former England spinner) which is a boost for them.

“If we win, you never know against England.”