The Irish national rugby team, under the guidance of head coach Scott Bemand, is embarking on a significant journey with the commencement of the WXV Global Series. This period is seen as the genesis of a new three-year cycle, meticulously designed to prepare the squad for the upcoming Women's Rugby World Cup. Following a quarter-final exit in the previous World Cup and a respectable third-place finish in the 2026 Six Nations, where they secured victories in all their home games, Ireland is now focused on strategically developing its team's capabilities and fostering new talent.
Ireland Kicks Off WXV Global Series with Ambition and Strategic Vision
On a bright Sunday afternoon, Ireland will inaugurate their WXV Global Series campaign against the United States at Dublin's iconic Tallaght Stadium. This crucial encounter, set for 13:45 BST, marks the first step in Bemand's vision for team rejuvenation. The Irish squad is then slated for two exhilarating double-header matches against Japan in Galway and Cork on September 27th and October 3rd, with the first being a WXV fixture. The series will culminate in two challenging WXV matches against South Africa in Cape Town on October 24th and 31st.
Addressing reporters at the team's training base in Dublin, Coach Bemand articulated his strategic outlook. He emphasized that the WXV series signifies a crucial "turning of the page," moving beyond past achievements and setting sights on future glory. "We are at the dawn of a new World Cup cycle," Bemand stated, highlighting the importance of looking three years ahead and identifying the necessary groundwork. He stressed the team's commitment to expanding its player pool, noting that the series offers a unique platform for emerging talents to earn up to 28 caps, potentially leading to over 25 caps by the next World Cup. This approach aims to cultivate a robust pipeline of skilled players, ensuring sustained competitiveness.
A notable absence from the upcoming fixtures is second-row player Sam Monaghan, who is sidelined due to an Achilles injury. However, Bemand views such setbacks as opportunities for other players to step up and demonstrate their prowess. "This opens avenues for existing leaders within the group and for other second-row players to emerge," he explained. The coach underscored the ongoing efforts to quietly build squad depth, with many players seizing the chance to train with the team and contend for selection. Bemand expressed optimism that several new faces would make their mark in the series, contributing to the team's ambition to achieve deeper runs in tournaments through enhanced experience.
Bemand maintains a strong belief in his team's potential for continuous improvement in both results and performance, provided they maintain their rigorous work ethic. He praised the current squad's talent and adaptability, noting their ability to execute a diverse and engaging brand of rugby. "Our play is exciting, fast-paced, powerful, and dynamic," he proudly affirmed, adding that the team possesses a comprehensive skill set, including effective kicking and fielding capabilities. Bemand concluded with a sense of anticipation, stating, "It feels as though we are on the precipice of something significant." He cautioned that success would not come easily, as competitors would undoubtedly take Ireland more seriously, making the final percentages the most challenging to attain. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that persistent effort would attract good fortune, allowing the team to benefit from favorable bounces of the ball. He lauded the players' unwavering dedication, who consistently strive for improvement, making it a privilege to witness and be a part of their journey.
This new World Cup cycle, spearheaded by the WXV Global Series, is not merely about winning games; it is about forging a resilient, deep, and highly skilled Irish rugby squad ready to contend on the global stage. The focus on developing talent and building experience is a strategic investment in the team's future, promising an exciting era for Irish women's rugby.
