Ireland second row Sam Monaghan has backed the Irish Rugby Football Union's interest in joining the Premiership Women's Rugby, describing it as "amazing" for the growth of the national team. The PWR, currently restricted to English clubs, opened an expression of interest process in April for organisations who might join the nine-team competition if it expanded, with the IRFU confirming their interest on Friday.

Monaghan is one of 11 players in the Ireland Six Nations squad who play in the PWR, and is one of four who play for reigning champions Gloucester-Hartpury after signing in the summer of 2022. While Munster, Connacht, Leinster and Ulster compete in an Interpro league, and Clovers and Wolfhounds represent Ireland in the Celtic Challenge, she believes an Irish team in the PWR would accelerate player development in a more competitive environment.

"I built a life over there, I have a house and a job and I'd love to come and play at home, but I don't think it's feasible for me, so to have the opportunity to do both would really be amazing," Monaghan told BBC Sport NI. The IRFU's formal interest marks a significant step toward making that a reality for Irish women's rugby.