There are four debutants named in the Ireland women’s team for Saturday’s first test in Japan.
Full-back Meabh Deely, right winger Natasja Behan, outside centre Aoife Dalton and Tullows own out half Dannah O’Brien will make their first starts in green.
O’Brien was part of the Women’s National Talent Squad (WNTS) and having first trained with McWilliams’ national panel back in February, then further impressed during the summer program, earn her opportunity in green this weekend.
Here is how we line up for Saturday's Test against Japan in Shizuoka! 💪
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) August 18, 2022
Head Coach Greg McWilliams has named six uncapped players in the Ireland Match Day Squad ⬇️#JapanTour2022 | #NothingLikeIt
See also: Tullow’s Dannah O’Brien named to Irish women’s rugby team bound for Japan
McWilliams has included six uncapped players in the matchday 23 with 4 of them named to start in an exciting young backline. The coach said he wants players to show ambition and not to be afraid to make mistakes.
“I hope they can go out and express themselves. It’s going to be daunting for them. They’re playing an international side that is well capable of playing fast, very fast rugby. But they’re players of the future. There’s no pressure on them, they’ve already won, they’ve got the opportunity to be in the national team.”
Former Kilkenny College student Nichola Fryday will captain the 15 for Saturday’s match which is live on TG4 from 10.40am Irish time, while there will be extensive match day coverage on IrishRugby.ie and across Irish Rugby social media channels.
