Ireland captain to return Sandy Park after Women’s Rugby World Cup

Captain of Ireland for the recent Six Nations tournament, Edel ‘Tricky’ McMahon will be returning to Sandy Park following this year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Having already played for Chiefs for three seasons, McMahon will be back for more having signed a new contract with the club this week.

Interim head coach Steve Salvin said: “Tricky is one of the most physical rugby players I have seen in this league. She really does lead from the front, and I understand why she was chosen to lead her country. She is passionate about this sport and is a true role model to younger players. We wish her well for the World Cup but will be more than happy to see her when she returns.”

McMahon’s fourth season with the club will see her reunite with Chiefs’ new backs coach Oli Bishop. The flanker worked with Bishop during his time with Wasps Women.

She said: “What makes this season even more exciting is the opportunity to work with Oli again. He’s had a big influence on my development, and I’m looking forward to learning even more under him.”

McMahon has played 22 leagues game for Chiefs and four cup matches. She has also racked up 34 caps for Ireland since her debut in 2018.

An experienced Gaelic football player, McMahon started playing rugby at university. She played in the first women’s Barbarians games in 2017 and was their only uncapped player. She moved to the UK from Connacht in 2019 and has played in multiple Six Nations tournaments but has yet to feature in a Women’s Rugby World Cup.

McMahon added: “She said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be staying with the Exeter Chiefs for my fourth season. This sunny south has become a real home for me and I’m proud to be part of the journey we're on here.”