Scott Bemand's side are back on the world stage after an eight-year wait and have seemingly gone from strength to strength in recent times

The bottom line for Ireland was overwhelmingly positive after a bonus-point victory over Japan to start their World Cup campaign, claiming six tries in front of an Irish-dominated crowd at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton.

Ireland made a highly anticipated return to the Women’s Rugby World Cup on Sunday, August 24, securing an emphatic win over Japan. The match finished 42-14 in favour of the girls in green, who scored six tries and six conversions to see off their Pool C opponents.