Seven uncapped players earn Ireland Women's call-up for WXV Global Series campaign

Ireland Women’s head coach Scott Bemand has named seven uncapped players in a 36-player training squad for the WXV Global Series, with the group set to assemble in Dublin ahead of a busy international programme that includes home Tests and a tour to South Africa.

Jemima Adams-Verling, Sophie Barrett, Beth Buttimer, Caitríona Finn, Kate Jordan, Lucia Linn and Alana McInerney are all yet to earn their first Ireland caps. Each has caught the eye in Celtic Challenge and Vodafone Women’s Interprovincial Championship action, and Bemand has moved quickly to integrate them into the international setup.

Ireland will host the USA Women’s Eagles and Japan in September as part of the WXV Global Series window, before welcoming Japan for a second Test outside that window. The squad then travels to South Africa in October for back-to-back fixtures against the Springbok Women. Home games are scheduled across Dublin, Galway and Cork.

Bemand framed the selection as a deliberate effort to build depth while maintaining the momentum Ireland generated during the Guinness Women’s Six Nations. “The WXV Global Series is a hugely exciting addition to the international calendar and creates meaningful, high-level competition for players and teams at a crucial point in the season,” he said.

“It’s particularly pleasing to see seven uncapped players included. The Interpros highlighted the quality of talent coming through the system, and this is an excellent chance for those players to challenge themselves, bring their own strengths to the group and help raise standards as they push for international honours.”

The full 36-player squad draws heavily from the provincial clubs, with Leinster, Munster, Ulster and Connacht all represented alongside players based at English clubs including Gloucester Hartpury, Exeter Chiefs, Harlequins, Sale Sharks and Trailfinders.