Head coach Scott Bemand makes bold changes as Ireland prepares to face Japan in Cork.
Ireland head coach Scott Bemand has named Jane Clohessy and Niamh Gallagher in the starting XV for the first time ahead of Saturday's international rugby Test against Japan.
The high-stakes fixture will take place at Virgin Media Park in Cork, following Ireland's previous victory over the same opponent in the WXV Global Series in Galway last Sunday, according to information published by RUGBY.
Alongside the two debut starts, the matchday squad includes three players poised to win their first caps from the replacements bench as the team builds depth ahead of upcoming fixtures.
Jane Clohessy and Niamh Gallagher Earn Maiden Starts
Munster player Jane Clohessy will earn her third international cap while making her maiden start in the second row alongside Fiona Tuite-O'Sullivan. Meanwhile, full-back Niamh Gallagher has secured her first-ever starting berth in the national team.
Despite the introduction of new faces, head coach Scott Bemand has retained a solid core of experienced players within the lineup to maintain stability against a competitive Japanese side.
Experienced Core and Captaincy
The forward pack features Linda Djougang, Neve Jones, and Eilis Cahill in the front row. Erin King will captain the side from the flanker position, supported in the back row by Brittany Hogan and Jemima Adams Verling.
In the half-backs, Emily Lane and Dannah O'Brien retain their established partnership. Anna McGann shifts from the wing to partner Aoife Dalton at centre, completing a strong tactical setup.
Debutants Ready on the Replacements Bench
The bench highlights upcoming talent with three players in line for their international debuts. Sophie Barrett, Kate Jordan, and Alana McInerney are all set to make their first appearances for Ireland as replacements during the match.
Additional bench coverage is provided by Beth Buttimer, Sadhbh McGrath, Grace Moore, Aoibheann Reilly, and Enya Breen, ensuring strong tactical options for the second half.
Squad Management and Upcoming WXV Action
Key back row player Aoife Wafer was not risked for the fixture after a minor training injury kept her sidelined from last Sunday's match in Galway as well.
Following this weekend encounter in Cork, Scott Bemand and his squad will turn their attention back to WXV action, featuring a demanding double-header against South Africa later in October.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the new players getting their first starts for Ireland?
Jane Clohessy and Niamh Gallagher have been handed their first-ever international starts by head coach Scott Bemand for the Test against Japan.
Where is the rugby Test between Ireland and Japan taking place?
The upcoming international Test match is scheduled to be held at Virgin Media Park in Cork.
Which players are set to make their debut from the bench?
Three players, namely Sophie Barrett, Kate Jordan, and Alana McInerney, are in line to make their debut appearances for Ireland as replacements.
Who is captaining the Ireland rugby team?
Erin King will captain the side from the flanker position during the weekend fixture against Japan.
