In a recent announcement by the IRFU, it has been revealed that the women’s rugby team of Ireland will face Australia in an autumn fixture, with Belfast as the chosen location. This important match, scheduled for 14th September at Kingspan Stadium, will serve as a means of getting the squad ready for the forthcoming WXV tournament later in the year. Having completed the latest Six Nations championship in third place, the Irish women will be participating in the supreme category, WXV1.
The specific timing for the game’s start, the methods of broadcasting, and details relating to ticket sales for this match with Australia are still to be made public. This face-off also holds a significant role in marking a milestone for Irish rugby with a 150 year anniversary celebration.
Last weekend saw the Irish women putting up a triumphant performance against Scotland in Belfast, securing their place at the World Cup next year by clinically snatching third spot in the Six Nations table.
Scott Bemand, the head coach of the women’s team, expressed his delight at the inclusion of this test match in the forthcoming season’s initial fixtures. Bemand highlighted the usefulness of this match in preparing for the WXV, due in September and October.
He also noted that this match gives them an opportunity to contest against a team with a contrasting style of game play, particularly since Australia would have just finished their Pacific Four tournament. Furthermore, Bemand spoke about the extra charm that the game brings, kicking off the 150th-anniversary celebrations of Irish Rugby. He expressed anticipation at returning to Belfast, where the team received immense support during the Six Nations.