Ireland women’s rugby returns to Cork this Saturday as Japan visit Virgin Media Park for the second meeting between the teams in a week. With a strong crowd expected and several players set for important milestones, this is one of the key fixtures in the autumn international schedule.
Scott Bemand’s Ireland side will be aiming to build on last week’s Vodafone Ireland WXV Series victory over Japan at Dexcom Stadium. The match is also the final home game of this three-match block before Ireland travel to Cape Town for two Tests against South Africa next month.
Ireland Women v Japan: The key match details
The game takes place at Virgin Media Park in Cork on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 2pm. Gates open at 12.30pm, while the teams are due to begin their warm-ups at 1.15pm. Supporters are encouraged to be in their seats by 1.50pm for the national anthems.
- Venue: Virgin Media Park, Cork
- Date: Saturday, 3 October 2026
- Kick-off: 2pm
- Live coverage: IrishRugby+
- Gates open: 12.30pm
Team news and debut opportunities
Ireland head coach Scott Bemand has confirmed his match-day 23 for the rematch. Erin King will captain the team, while Jane Clohessy and Niamh Gallagher are named to make their first starts for Ireland.
Sophie Barrett, Kate Jordan and Alana McInerney are also included among the replacements and could make their international debuts if called upon. Their involvement adds another layer of interest to a fixture that already carries significance as Ireland prepare for the South Africa series.
Tickets, stadium access and supporter information
Tickets remain available through Ticketmaster, with prices starting at €6 for children and €22.95 for adults. Match-day sales will also operate from the Ticket Office on Pearse Road from 11.30am. Only card payments will be accepted at the venue.
Stand seating is unreserved and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Fans using the West Stand are asked to take the nearest available seats and avoid leaving gaps in the middle of rows. Stewards will be available to assist supporters throughout the stadium.
Access to the South Terrace has changed. Supporters should use the entrance at the rear of the terrace and follow the signs and steward instructions on arrival.
Parking arrangements in Cork
There is no parking for supporters inside the stadium grounds. Fans are asked not to park in nearby residential areas, particularly where vehicles could block entrances. Clamping is also in operation at surrounding retail parks, so signage should be checked carefully.
The recommended option is the free Black Ash Park & Ride, which is less than five minutes from Virgin Media Park on foot. Supporters can use the service by presenting their match ticket at the Black Ash reception before or after the game.
Food, facilities and family-friendly details
Hot food will be available from concessions at both ends of the West Stand. Elverys will operate a shop at the Pearse Road and Dolphin RFC end, while Munster Rugby Supporter Club members will distribute flags before kick-off.
Accessible toilets at the back of the West Stand include baby-changing facilities. Breastfeeding spaces are also available, with staff ready to direct supporters to a suitable area. Families bringing a buggy or pram are asked to leave it by the green pitch-side railing without obstructing the walkway.
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What to watch next for Ireland
Saturday’s match offers Ireland an opportunity to finish their home autumn programme with another positive result and valuable minutes for emerging players. The performance will also provide a useful indication of where the squad stands before the demanding South Africa Tests in Cape Town next month.
Bottom line: supporters heading to Virgin Media Park should plan ahead, arrive early and use the Black Ash Park & Ride where possible. On the pitch, Ireland will look to turn last week’s win into momentum while giving new faces a chance to make their mark in Irish rugby.
Article/Image Courtesy: Irish Rugby
