Dublin – Scott Bemand has announced his 36-player squad for the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations Championship, with Erin King named as captain. The selection marks a new chapter for the Irish team, blending experienced players with a significant influx of uncapped talent as they prepare for the upcoming tournament. This announcement comes after Bemand recently signed a contract extension, securing his position as head coach through 2029, demonstrating the Irish Rugby Football Union’s confidence in his leadership.
The squad features nine uncapped players, signaling Bemand’s commitment to developing emerging talent and broadening the player pool. But, the team will be without several key figures, including Amee-Leigh Costigan, who is expecting twins, and Edel McMahon, a former co-captain sidelined by a knee injury. Despite these absences, Bemand expressed optimism about the group’s preparation and focus, stating, “We had a positive three-day camp in January to lay the foundations for what’s ahead and the group – both players and staff – are excited to come back together now to narrow the focus on the challenges ahead.”
Squad Breakdown: Forwards
The forward pack showcases a blend of power and experience. Key players include Jemima Adams Verling (Galwegians/Connacht), Sophie Barrett (Enniskillen/Cooke/Ulster), and Beth Buttimer (UL Bohemian/Munster). The inclusion of Aoife Wafer (Harlequins/Leinster) is a particularly positive development, as she returns to international action after a challenging 2025 due to injury. The full list of forwards is as follows:
- Jemima Adams Verling (Galwegians/Connacht)
- Sophie Barrett (Enniskillen/Cooke/Ulster)
- Beth Buttimer (UL Bohemian/Munster)
- Eilis Cahill (UL Bohemian/Munster)
- Ruth Campbell (Old Belvedere/Leinster)
- Jane Clohessy (UL Bohemian/Munster)
- Linda Djougang (Old Belvedere/Leinster)
- Brittany Hogan (Sale Sharks/Ulster)
- Neve Jones (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Erin King (Old Belvedere/Leinster, captain)
- Aoibheann McGrath (Ballincollig/Munster)
- Sadhbh McGrath (Cooke/Ulster)
- Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald (Exeter Chiefs)
- Sam Monaghan (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Grace Moore (Trailfinders Women)
- Niamh O’Dowd (Gloucester-Hartpury/Leinster)
- Ellena Perry (Gloucester-Hartpury)
- Ailish Quinn (Galwegians/Connacht)
- Fiona Tuite (Old Belvedere/Ulster)
- Aoife Wafer (Harlequins/Leinster)
- Dorothy Wall (Exeter Chiefs/Munster)
Backs Set to Shine
The backs division features a dynamic mix of established stars and emerging talents. Beibhinn Parsons (Blackrock College/Connacht) and Dannah O’Brien (Old Belvedere RFC/Leinster) are expected to play pivotal roles in the Irish attack. The squad too includes Nancy McGillivray (Exeter Chiefs) and Niamh Gallagher (Trailfinders Women), adding further depth and versatility to the backline. The complete list of backs is:
- Alana McInerney (UL Bohemian/Munster)
- Anna McGann (Railway Union/Connacht)
- Aoibheann Reilly (Blackrock College/Connacht)
- Aoife Dalton (Old Belvedere/Leinster)
- Beibhinn Parsons (Blackrock College/Connacht)
- Caitriona Finn (UL Bohemian/Munster)
- Dannah O’Brien (Old Belvedere RFC/Leinster)
- Emily Lane (Blackrock College/Munster)
- Enya Breen (Blackrock College/Munster)
- Eve Higgins (Railway Union/Leinster)
- Nancy McGillivray (Exeter Chiefs)
- Niamh Gallagher (Trailfinders Women)
- Robyn O’Connor (Old Belvedere/Leinster)
- Stacey Flood (Railway Union/Leinster)
- Vicky Elmes Kinlan (Wicklow/Leinster)
Erin King’s appointment as captain marks a significant moment for the team, particularly as she returns to international action after being sidelined by injury during the 2025 Rugby World Cup. Her leadership and experience will be crucial as Ireland navigates a competitive Six Nations campaign.
The Irish Women’s Six Nations campaign is set to start soon, and Bemand’s squad appears well-prepared to face the challenges ahead. With a blend of seasoned veterans and exciting new talent, the team aims to craft a strong impression in the tournament. The focus now shifts to refining team combinations and building momentum as they prepare for their opening match.
What are your thoughts on the new squad? Share your predictions for the Women’s Six Nations in the comments below!
