McMahon returns to lead Ireland against the Black Ferns
Exeter Chiefs Women’s flanker Edel ‘Tricky’ McMahon has been selected to lead Ireland against Black Ferns in Pool C decider between the two teams.
Both international sides have already qualified for the quarter-finals but Sunday’s game will determine who will top the group and play the so-called easier game in the next round.
McMahon was rested against Spain last week, so is raring to go for this weekend’s game being played at the Brighton & Hove Albion Stadium (KO 14:45). She reflected on the last time Ireland played New Zealand 12 months ago.
She said: “We've changed massively since the start of the journey as a squad. Over the last 12 months we’ve really grown and developed. Players have come in, others have stepped up, and with certain names not being available, it’s been a massive part of how we have evolved as a team."
Co-captain McMahon will be joined in the 23 with Cliodhna Moloney and Nancy McGillivray on the bench.
They will face new Chief Amy Rule, who has been selected on the bench for the Black Ferns.
Both Ireland and Black Ferns are due to return to Sandy Park for next weekend’s quarter-finals. The winner of Pool C will play the runner-up of Pool D on Saturday, 13 September (KO 13:00) while the winner of Pool D will play the Pool C runner-up on Sunday, 14 September, also at 13:00. Tickets start at £15 are available here.
Elsewhere, full-back/wing Francesca Granzotto has been selected to start against Brazil in Italy’s last game in this year’s Rugby World Cup before she makes her way to Sandy Park to begin her new club career.
Exeter-based RFU referee Sara Cox will also officiate her 50th international this weekend when she presides over Japan v Spain at York Community Stadium on Sunday (KO 12:00).