Edel McMahon out as Aoife Wafer returns as Ireland is about to take on France this Sunday. Photo: Getty Images (BBC)
(The Post News)– Ireland back row Aoife Wafer is set to make her first appearance at the Women’s Rugby World Cup when she lines up in Sunday’s quarter final against France. The flash is set on Sunday, 14 September 2025, at Sandy Park, Exeter.
The 22-year-old, who will move to English club Harlequins after the tournament, sat out the pool matches while recovering from knee surgery she had in July. Wafer’s comeback, as the 2025 Women’s Six Nations Player of the Tournament, is one of two changes to Ireland’s starting lineup for their first World Cup quarter-final since 2014.
The 2025 Six Nations Player of the Tournament remained at home to continue her rehabilitation when Ireland departed for England, only joining the squad after their opening victory over Japan.
Head Coach Bemand Praises Wafer’s Return
Head coach Scott Bemand praised her return: “She is a class player. We have all wanted to see her back on the pitch. She has been desperate to contribute to what we are building here. She has worked incredibly hard behind the scenes, with strong support, to get her to this point. We’re fully confident she’s fit and ready. It’s now time to let her play.”
Wafer is replacing Edel McMahon of Exeter, who left that match early in the second half due to a knee injury. “Edel misses out through injury; that is the reality,” Bemand said. “We’ll miss her leadership and defensive presence.” The other adjustment sees Fiona Tuite come in for Grace Moore in the back row. Moore shifts to the bench, with Claire Boles dropping out of the matchday 23. On the replacements bench, Enya Breen comes in for Nancy McGillvray.
Despite sustaining injuries against the Black Ferns, Stacey Flood and Eve Higgins are fit to start at fullback and inside center. Loosehead prop Niamh O’Dowd also keeps her starting spot, while Ellena Perry returns to the bench after being a late withdrawal ahead of last week’s pool match. Ireland progressed to the quarterfinals as runners-up in Pool C, while France advanced from Pool D with wins over South Africa, Italy, and Brazil.
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