Ireland make six changes for Japan rematch in Cork, coach says
Ireland head coach Scott Bemand has made six personnel and positional changes to his starting XV ahead of Saturday’s rugby rematch against Japan at Virgin Media Park in Cork, rte.ie reported. The adjustments follow Ireland’s 31-24 victory in Galway, bringing uncapped players into the matchday squad and handing maiden starts to two developing talents.
Six Changes Alter Starting Lineup for Cork Test
Following last Sunday’s 31-24 win at Dexcom Stadium, Ireland head coach Scott Bemand revamped nearly half of his starting lineup for the second fixture of the block. According to rte.ie, Jane Clohessy and Niamh Gallagher are set to earn their first Test starts in Cork. Clohessy slots into the second row for her third cap, partnering Fiona Tuite-O’Sullivan, while Gallagher takes over the fullback jersey.
The back row remains the solitary positional grouping preserved in its entirety from the Galway encounter, anchored by captain Erin King alongside Brittany Hogan and Jemima Adams Verling.
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Injury Constraints Shape Selection Decisions
Scrum coach Denis Fogarty indicated that the team prefers to err on the side of caution rather than risk the backrower prematurely.
Dorothy Wall similarly misses out on the matchday 23 due to a knock, forcing further adjustments to the pack. Linda Djougang returns to the starting side at loosehead prop to replace Niamh O’Dowd, packing down alongside hooker Neve Jones and tighthead prop Eilís Cahill. In the halfbacks, Emily Lane replaces Aoibheann Reilly at scrum-half to partner out-half Dannah O’Brien.
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Backline Reconfigurations and Debutants on Bench
Further changes ripple through the outside backs and midfield channels. Aoife Dalton rotates into the starting fifteen at inside centre in place of Eve Higgins, joining outside centre Anna McGann. In the backfield, Robyn O’Connor claims the left wing spot previously held by Vicky Elmes Kinlan, while Beibhinn Parsons retains her position on the right touchline.
The bench features a blend of established cover and uncapped potential. Front-row reinforcements include Beth Buttimer and Sadhbh McGrath, alongside debut contenders Sophie Barrett and Kate Jordan. Grace Moore, Aoibheann Reilly, and Enya Breen complete the reserve list alongside fellow uncapped back Alana McInerney.
Match Schedule and Broadcasting Details
Saturday’s international fixture kicks off at 2:00 PM at Virgin Media Park in Cork. The match serves as the final outing of the current home series before the squad travels for an upcoming tour to South Africa. Supporters can view the broadcast live on IrishRugby+, with remaining match tickets available for purchase via Ticketmaster.
Disclaimer: The insights provided in this article are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or sports betting recommendations.
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