Stokell's positive test dates to June 23 in Bristol

Rebecca Stokell has begun a voluntary suspension after testing positive for a banned substance during the women's T20 World Cup. The 26-year-old middle-order batter started her suspension on October 23. She is waiting for the International Cricket Council to finish its investigation.

The positive result came from a sample collected on June 23. That was the day Ireland lost to Sri Lanka in Bristol. The ICC has not yet revealed the specific substance found in the sample. Stokell said the medication was a prescription treatment. She stated the substance was "not performance related in any way." However, she acknowledged that she did not follow the proper regulations.

Cricket Ireland said a longer suspension is "likely" based on the failed test. The governing body noted that the rules exist to protect both the sport and the athletes. Director of high performance Graeme West said the team supported Stokell during this period. He added that all players must meet the expected standards.

Stokell admitted to the violation before the disciplinary process concluded. She said she fully accepted her mistake. "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," she said.

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

The ICC disciplinary process is still ongoing. No further dates have been announced for the final decision. Stokell remains suspended until the findings are returned.