Ireland women's rugby coach Gareth Steenson says the current squad has given him a 'resurgence of energy' ahead of the Six Nations campaign. The team faces world champions England in their opening match at Allianz Stadium in London on Saturday, with a record-breaking 67,000 tickets already sold for the tournament opener.

Steenson, who joined Ireland's coaching staff in 2024 after a successful 12-year playing career at Exeter Chiefs, sees this squad as the foundation for the next World Cup. The team aims to build on recent consistency, having finished third in the last two Six Nations tournaments. Nine uncapped players feature in the squad, with flanker Erin King named captain following Amee-Leigh Costigan's pregnancy announcement.

Despite facing England, who have won seven consecutive Six Nations titles and haven't lost since 2018, Steenson is confident about the challenge. The former fly-half believes the match offers a perfect template for success, referencing the men's team's recent performance. Ireland's campaign continues with home games against Italy, France, Wales, and Scotland, with Steenson targeting three home wins as progression from last year's two victories.