Ireland women's squad for Six Nations ‘a blend of youth and experience’

Thu, 28 Jan, 2016 - 14:41

Ireland women's coach Tom Tierney has announced the squad that will defend Ireland’s Six Nations title.

Seven uncapped players have been included in a squad that combines proven talent with new faces.

Led once more by full-back Niamh Briggs, the 30-strong squad will look to pull off a repeat of last year’s successful campaign.

They will play their home matches in Donnybrook this season. They will open their campaign at the Dublin Four venue when they face Wales on Saturday, February 6.

They will also take part in a double header in Twickenham, when they play England directly after their male counterparts on February 27.

Video from IrishRugbyTVOfficial.

"We have named a squad full of talent for this year's championship,” Tierney said at the announcement. “There is a nice blend of youth and experience and the vibe in the camp has been very positive over the last few weeks.

“We've had the opportunity to see a lot of the girls play and we've looked at a number of combinations. The newer members of the squad are doing really well, so we're looking forward to getting the campaign underway against Wales in Donnybrook and seeing what the girls can do”.

Director of Women's Rugby, Anthony Eddy added: "This is an exciting time for women's rugby in Ireland.

“In November we saw the team play their first ever Autumn International against England and they've had a number of weekend camps at their base in DCU over the last number of months.

“With the move to Donnybrook stadium this year, we will hopefully see even more supporters come out to watch the women play.”

2016 Women's Six Nations gears up for battle https://t.co/sX4ICp7YHW pic.twitter.com/KBuqTQ9yfb
— Guinness Men's Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) January 27, 2016