Ireland Faces New Zealand Without Wafer as Parsons Returns

Ireland’s rugby team will take the field against New Zealand on March 10, 2024, without the services of Aoife Wafer. The player, who has been increasing her training intensity following a knee surgery, has been excluded from the matchday 23 by head coach Scott Bemand. This decision comes as Ireland prepares for a critical clash in their final Pool C match.

In a significant shake-up, Bemand has made six changes from the squad that secured a victory against Spain the previous weekend. Among the notable returns is Béibhinn Parsons, who takes her position back on the wing. Aoibheann Reilly returns to scrumhalf, while Neve Jones starts at hooker. The lineup also features Ruth Campbell at lock and a backrow that includes Brittany Hogan and Edel McMahon.

Fiona Tuite, who has served as Ireland’s lineout caller in the first two pool matches, will not play due to a knock. Grace Moore will take her place at number six. Additionally, Enya Breen has been excluded from the squad after providing cover as outhalf/centre from the bench in previous games. Nancy McGillivray has been named to fill her spot on the bench.

Ireland’s starting lineup is as follows:
– **Stacey Flood** (fullback)
– **Béibhinn Parsons**, **Aoife Dalton**, **Eve Higgins**, **Amee-Leigh Costigan** (backs)
– **Dannah O’Brien**, **Aoibheann Reilly** (halfbacks)
– **Ellena Perry**, **Neve Jones**, **Linda Djougang** (forwards)
– **Ruth Campbell**, **Sam Monaghan** (co-captain)
– **Grace Moore**, **Edel McMahon** (co-captain), **Brittany Hogan** (backrow)

The replacements include:
– **Clíodhna Moloney MacDonald**
– **Niamh O’Dowd**
– **Sadhbh McGrath**
– **Eimear Corri-Fallon**
– **Claire Boles**
– **Emily Lane**
– **Nancy McGillivray**
– **Anna McGann**.

On the opposing side, New Zealand will field a strong lineup featuring players such as **Renee Holmes** at fullback and **Ruahei Demant** as co-captain. The team also boasts talents like **Portia Woodman-Wickliffe** and **Georgia Ponsonby** in key positions.

This match marks a crucial moment for Ireland as they aim to advance in the tournament, facing a formidable New Zealand squad renowned for their skill and tenacity on the rugby field. With the absence of Wafer and the return of Parsons, Ireland will need to leverage their strengths to secure a victory.