Chiefs to represent Ireland and Black Ferns in first round of World Cup

More Women's Rugby World Cup team news has dropped with Chiefs involved in campaign openers for Ireland and the Black Ferns.

Chiefs' flanker Edel McMahon takes on the vice-captaincy duty for Ireland with club teammate Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald named on the bench for their first round meeting with Japan. 

McMahon said: “During the four days of travel and other things, we were just itching to get on the pitch. You feel like you prepare a long time for this first game so it’s a case of ‘let’s get out on the pitch’. There’s a good balance in the squad, with people who are good at compartmentalising things.

"We do have girls with different experiences on the world stage, so it doesn’t feel like a lot of players’ first World Cup. These girls take it in their stride. It’s cool to see that headspace.”

Ireland play Japan at Franklin's Gardens in Northampton on Sunday (KO 12:00). This game will be shown live on BBC iPlayer.

Meanwhile Chiefs' new signing Amy Rule will represent the reigning champions as she starts their game against Spain.

Rule said: "I am stoked to have been named this week. It's awesome to go against a side like Spain as it’s a team we don’t get to face often so that’s a cool opportunity in itself.

"For me personally, I’m just excited to start the World Cup and compete against the best!"

The Black Ferns take on Spain a the Community Stadium in York on Sunday (KO 17:30). This game will be shown live on BBC iPlayer.

Sandy Park is hosting seven Rugby World Cup fixtures starting with France v Italy (KO 20:15). Tickets are still available for this game here.

Rugby World Cup fixtures at Sandy Park:

Saturday, 23 August - KO 20:15 - France v Italy

Sunday, 31 August - KO 14:00 - New Zealand v Japan/KO 16:45 France v Brazil

Saturday, 6 September - KO12:00 - Canada v Scotland/ KO 14:45 Wales v Fiji

Saturday, 13 September - KO 13:00 - Winner pool C v Runner-up pool D quarter-final

Sunday, 14 September - KO 13:00 - Winner pool D v Runner-up pool C quarter-final

Tickets available from www.rugbyworldcup.com