Ireland’s Women’s Rugby Team: A New Era Begins with Bemand’s Squad
Scott Bemand has unveiled a 36-player Ireland squad for the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations, marking a significant shift for the team. The squad features nine uncapped players, signaling a commitment to developing new talent alongside experienced stars.
A Wave of New Faces
The inclusion of nine uncapped players demonstrates a clear strategy to broaden the player base and foster competition within the team. Forwards Jemima Adams Verling, Sophie Barrett, Beth Buttimer, Eilís Cahill, and Aoibheann McGrath join uncapped backs Alana McInerney, Caitriona Finn, Niamh Gallagher, and Robyn O’Connor as newcomers to the international stage. Many of these players have recently impressed in the Celtic Challenge.
Leadership Transition: King Takes the Helm
Erin King will captain Ireland in the 2026 Championship, succeeding Edel McMahon and Sam Monaghan. King, who missed the World Cup due to injury, returns to lead a team undergoing considerable change. Monaghan remains in the squad, providing valuable experience alongside the new captain.
Experienced Players Return and Depart
Dorothy Wall returns to the Irish squad after missing the World Cup with an achilles injury, adding further strength and versatility to the team. Still, the squad also sees departures, including retired players Eimear Corri-Fallon and Nicole Fowley. Long-term co-captain Edel McMahon is sidelined for the season with a knee injury, and Amee Leigh Costigan will miss the Six Nations due to pregnancy.
Championship Schedule and Key Matches
Ireland will kick off their campaign with an away match against England at Twickenham on April 11th. They will then host Italy at Dexcom Stadium, followed by a trip to France. The championship concludes with back-to-back home games against Wales in Belfast and Scotland at the Aviva Stadium – a historic first standalone women’s Test at the iconic venue.
The Growing Momentum of Women’s Rugby
The investment in the Irish Women’s Six Nations squad, coupled with the first standalone women’s Test at the Aviva Stadium, reflects a broader trend of increasing support and recognition for women’s rugby globally. This growth is driven by several factors, including increased media coverage, rising participation rates, and dedicated investment from governing bodies.
The Impact of Professionalization
The professionalization of women’s rugby leagues, such as the Premier 15s in England and the Celtic Challenge, is crucial for developing player talent and creating a sustainable pathway for athletes. These leagues provide players with the opportunity to train and compete at a high level, leading to improved performances on the international stage.
Expanding Fanbase and Commercial Opportunities
As the quality of play improves, the fanbase for women’s rugby is expanding rapidly. This, in turn, is attracting commercial investment and creating new opportunities for sponsorship and revenue generation. The over 15,000 tickets already sold for the Aviva Stadium match demonstrate the growing public interest in the sport.
Ireland Squad – 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations
Forwards (21): Jemima Adams Verling, Sophie Barrett, Beth Buttimer, Eilís Cahill, Ruth Campbell, Jane Clohessy, Linda Djougang, Brittany Hogan, Neve Jones, Erin King (captain), Aoibheann McGrath, Sadhbh McGrath, Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald, Sam Monaghan, Grace Moore, Niamh O’Dowd, Ellena Perry, Ailish Quinn, Fiona Tuite, Aoife Wafer, Dorothy Wall
Backs (15): Alana McInerney, Anna McGann, Aoibheann Reilly, Aoife Dalton, Béibhinn Parsons, Caitríona Finn, Dannah O’Brien, Emily Lane, Enya Breen, Eve Higgins, Nancy McGillivray, Niamh Gallagher, Robyn O’Connor, Stacey Flood, Vicky Elmes Kinlan.
FAQ
Q: Who is the captain of the Ireland Women’s Six Nations squad?
A: Erin King.
Q: Where will Ireland play their first match of the championship?
A: Away against England at Twickenham.
Q: How many uncapped players are in the squad?
A: Nine.
Q: Where will Ireland host Scotland?
A: At the Aviva Stadium.
Did you recognize? This will be the first ever standalone women’s Test match held at the Aviva Stadium.
Explore more about the Guinness Women’s Six Nations here.
