Fantastic news for women’s sport in this country, as it is announced that Ireland have successfully bid to host the 2017 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
In March, the IRFU said they had submitted a bid to host the tournament, with matches to be held in Dublin and Belfast
This afternoon they confirmed the bid was successful, at an announcement in Dublin attended by Ireland Women's captain Niamh Briggs and former Ireland captain Fiona Coghlan.
Brilliant News: Ireland to host @WorldRugby Women's Rugby World Cup 2017 #wrugby pic.twitter.com/gryxRIgpS9
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) May 13, 2015
Women’s rugby is thriving in Ireland, with Niamh Briggs leading the women’s team to a Six Nations title earlier this year.
Last summer Ireland made it to the semi-final stages of the World Cup, including an historic victory against New Zealand in the group stages.
The news has been greeted with delight around the country.
Something to dance about! Ireland to host 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup - thanks to the players for making it happen! pic.twitter.com/FOP6ZtOfxV
— Mary White (She/Her) (@mary_white33) May 13, 2015
Great news for women's rugby as Ireland have just been confirmed as the hosts for the 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup! #Excitingtimes
— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) May 13, 2015
Delighted that Ireland will host the 2017 Women's Rugby World Cup. @irishrugby @CoghlanFiona #GenderEquality
— Aodhán Ó Ríordáin (@AodhanORiordain) May 13, 2015