Ireland rugby is entering an important new phase, with head coach Scott Bemand determined to use the WXV Global Series to develop experience, strengthen squad depth and keep the team moving upwards. Five match days against the USA, Japan and South Africa will give Ireland Women a demanding test of their progress.
The series follows a hugely encouraging 2025 Guinness Women’s Six Nations campaign, when Ireland finished third. Strong home performances against Italy and Wales were followed by a landmark 54-5 win over Scotland at the Aviva Stadium, watched by a record crowd of 31,294.
Ireland rugby looking to build on Six Nations momentum
Ireland Women now face another significant occasion when they make their Tallaght Stadium debut against the USA. The American side are ranked eighth in the world, ensuring Ireland will have little room for error in the opening fixture.
Preparations included a three-day training block with Canada at the IRFU High Performance Centre earlier this month. That work was designed not only to sharpen the starting group, but also to assess players competing for their first international appearances.
Bemand believes the squad has the ability to play with variety and intensity. Ireland’s approach is built around speed, physicality, movement and an improved kicking game, giving the team more than one route to success.
“It feels like we are on the cusp of something,” Bemand said, while acknowledging that progress will require continued hard work as opponents begin to take Ireland more seriously.
New Ireland players given a chance to make their mark
Nine uncapped players are included in the 36-strong squad, with Alma Atagamen and Olivia McKinley among those hoping to make their senior debuts. The series represents a valuable opportunity for emerging talent to show that they can operate at international level.
Several players impressed during the Vodafone Women’s Interprovincial Championship. Munster hooker Beth Buttimer is one of the most prominent names after scoring eight tries as the province retained its title. Her Munster team-mate Caitríona Finn is pushing for recognition at out-half, while Connacht back rower Jemima Adams Verling has earned attention through her consistency.
The development of those players is central to Ireland’s long-term plans. With the 2029 Rugby World Cup in Australia now forming part of the horizon, the coaching staff want to identify who can become established internationals over the next three years.
Why squad depth matters
International rugby places enormous physical demands on players. Injuries, workload and the intensity of a tournament can quickly expose a narrow squad, making competition for places essential.
- More players need exposure to Test rugby.
- Young prospects must be tested against leading nations.
- Leadership responsibilities need to be shared across the squad.
- Selection pressure can raise standards in every position.
Bemand said the Global Series offers Ireland three home matches in which to expand its options and discover the next group of players ready to step forward.
Erin King faces a major leadership challenge
Captain Erin King already understands the value of international opportunities. She scored against the USA in Ireland’s 26-14 victory in the 2024 WXV1 tournament in Canada and was later named World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year.
The 22-year-old has also sought advice from former co-captains Edel McMahon and Sam Monaghan during her first season leading the team. Monaghan’s Achilles injury means she will miss the entire WXV Global Series, creating a significant gap in the second row and in Ireland’s leadership group.
Her absence is a setback, but it also creates an opening for another forward to establish herself. Bemand believes Ireland have been developing players quietly and that the current series can reveal who is ready to take on greater responsibility.
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What comes next for Ireland Women?
The immediate focus is the USA at Tallaght Stadium, but the bigger objective extends beyond one result. Ireland want to turn promising performances into sustained progress, build a stronger pool of Test-ready players and ensure the squad is better equipped for the next World Cup cycle.
The opening rounds of the WXV Global Series should offer a clear indication of whether Ireland can maintain their upward momentum. Supporters will be watching not only for the result, but also for the players who seize their opportunity and become part of Ireland’s next generation.
Article/Image Courtesy: Irish Rugby
