
Higgins returns for Ireland to face Wales
Ireland head coach Scott Bemand makes one change to his starting XV for Saturday's Women's Six Nations home game against Wales.

Ireland head coach Scott Bemand makes one change to his starting XV for Saturday's Women's Six Nations home game against Wales.

Ireland women's rugby team fell to a 10th consecutive defeat against France at Stade Marcel-Michelin, missing a golden opportunity for revenge following their Rugby World Cup quarter-final exit. Ireland had three first-half tries disallowed and a missed penalty, while France's dominant defence - making 240 tackles with 94% success rate - secured victory. The result leaves Ireland unlikely to finish higher than third in the Six Nations, nine years since their last win over France.

Ireland women's rugby team head coach Scott Bemand says his side are ready for the pressure of facing France in Clermont on Saturday. Ireland began their Six Nations with a 33-12 loss to England at Twickenham but bounced back with a win over Italy. Bemand believes the team's experience at last year's World Cup, facing New Zealand and France in front of near-capacity crowds, will help them secure a first win on French soil.