IRFU await news of 'massive opportunity' to join PWR
Lynne Cantwell, head of women's strategy for the IRFU, believes the potential of Irish sides forming part of a future British and Irish League represents a major opportunity.
Irish Rugby Federation (IRFU) officials are eagerly awaiting the outcome of a potential bid to join the British and Irish League Women's (PWR) competition. Currently, the PWR is exclusively composed of English clubs, but the organization opened an expression of interest process in April for other interested parties. The IRFU, along with Scottish and Welsh unions, has shown interest in joining the nine-team league.
A decision on the matter is expected within the next three to four months. Lynne Cantwell, IRFU head of women's strategy, considers this a momentous opportunity, stating that it would provide elite competition for national and emerging players. The IRFU has submitted extensive information to support their bid, including strategy, commercial, performance, and stadium access plans.
The Celtic Challenge, currently contested by Irish, Scottish, and Welsh sides, is an exciting prospect, as it would allow Irish players to compete with the Red Roses and players from other nations. The IRFU has a strong presence in the PWR, with several Irish players, including double Women's Six Nations player-of-the-tournament Aoife Wafer, participating in the competition.
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