The Ireland Women’s Six Nations campaign is set to begin with a renewed sense of optimism following the announcement of Scott Bemand’s 36-player squad for the 2026 tournament. Bemand, who recently signed a latest contract through 2027, has named a team balancing experienced players with emerging talent, though not without some notable absences. The squad reflects a program continuing to build momentum after a period of significant growth and investment in the women’s game.
The selection process wasn’t without its challenges. Amee-Leigh Costigan, a dynamic presence on the wing, will miss the tournament as she prepares to welcome twins, a joyous occasion that sidelines her from the pitch. Similarly, Edel McMahon, a long-serving and influential co-captain, is unavailable due to a knee injury sustained earlier this season. Her leadership and physicality will be keenly missed, but the squad demonstrates depth in its ability to adapt.
Despite these setbacks, there’s considerable positive news. Aoife Wafer, a versatile back row forward, returns to the international fold after overcoming a challenging 2025 hampered by injury. Her recent run of form with Harlequins has demonstrated her resilience and ability to contribute at a high level. The inclusion of Wafer adds valuable experience and competition to a crucial position.
Perhaps the most significant announcement is the captaincy of Erin King. The Old Belvedere player will lead the side, marking a significant moment in her career. King’s return to international action is particularly noteworthy, having been sidelined by injury during the 2025 Rugby World Cup. Her leadership qualities and on-field performance make her a natural choice to captain the team, and her appointment signals a commitment to a player-led culture within the squad. Bemand emphasized the positive atmosphere within the team, stating, “We had a positive three-day camp in January to lay the foundations for what’s ahead and the group – both players and staff – are excited to come back together now to narrow the focus on the challenges ahead,” according to BBC Northern Ireland.
Squad Breakdown: Forwards
The forward pack boasts a blend of power and mobility. Jemima Adams Verling (Galwegians/Connacht) and Sophie Barrett (Enniskillen/Cooke/Ulster) provide options in the second row, while Beth Buttimer (UL Bohemian/Munster) and Eilis Cahill (UL Bohemian/Munster) offer strength and dynamism at prop. Ruth Campbell (Old Belvedere/Leinster) and Jane Clohessy (UL Bohemian/Munster) add further depth to the front row. The back row sees the return of Aoife Wafer (Harlequins/Leinster) alongside experienced campaigners Linda Djougang (Old Belvedere/Leinster), Brittany Hogan (Sale Sharks/Ulster), and captain Erin King (Old Belvedere/Leinster). Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald (Exeter Chiefs) and Dorothy Wall (Exeter Chiefs/Munster) bring international experience, while Neve Jones (Gloucester-Hartpury), Sam Monaghan (Gloucester-Hartpury), Grace Moore (Trailfinders Women), Niamh O’Dowd (Gloucester-Hartpury/Leinster), Ellena Perry (Gloucester-Hartpury), Ailish Quinn (Galwegians/Connacht), Fiona Tuite (Old Belvedere/Ulster), Aoibheann McGrath (Ballincollig/Munster), and Sadhbh McGrath (Cooke/Ulster) complete a formidable pack.
Squad Breakdown: Backs
The backline is equally impressive, featuring a mix of pace, power, and creativity. Dannah O’Brien (Old Belvedere RFC/Leinster) and Stacey Flood (Railway Union/Leinster) will likely battle for the fly-half position, while Eve Higgins (Railway Union/Leinster) and Beibhinn Parsons (Blackrock College/Connacht) offer exciting options on the wings. The centers will see competition from Aoife Dalton (Old Belvedere/Leinster), Enya Breen (Blackrock College/Munster), and Robyn O’Connor (Old Belvedere/Leinster). Emily Lane (Blackrock College/Munster), Caitriona Finn (UL Bohemian/Munster), Alana McInerney (UL Bohemian/Munster), Anna McGann (Railway Union/Connacht), Aoibheann Reilly (Blackrock College/Connacht), Nancy McGillivray (Exeter Chiefs), Niamh Gallagher (Trailfinders Women), and Vicky Elmes Kinlan (Wicklow/Leinster) provide further depth and versatility.
The appointment of Erin King as captain represents a significant moment for Irish women’s rugby. Her leadership will be crucial as the team navigates a challenging Six Nations campaign. The squad’s blend of experience and emerging talent suggests a team capable of competing at the highest level. The absence of key players like Costigan and McMahon will undoubtedly be felt, but Bemand has assembled a group ready to step up and embrace the challenge.
The Ireland Women’s Six Nations campaign kicks off on [Date to be confirmed – check official Women’s Six Nations fixtures for updates]. Fans will be eager to see how this new-look squad performs and whether they can build on the progress made in recent years. The team’s first match will provide a crucial indication of their potential and set the tone for the remainder of the tournament.
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) continues to invest in the women’s game, and this squad represents the fruits of that labor. The focus now shifts to preparation and execution, as Bemand and his team look to make a significant impact on the international stage. The next official update regarding team preparations and potential warm-up matches is expected in early April.
What are your thoughts on the squad selection? Share your predictions for the tournament in the comments below.
