LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken

'Blow the sport wide open': What a World Cup berth would mean for Ireland

Kennerson has finalized his 20-player squad for the inaugural IRL Women's World Series taking place in Canada, where the last spot for the 2026 Women's Rugby League World Cup in Australia and Papua New Guinea will be contested.

The Irish Women's team will face Nigeria in their first match on Tuesday, October 21, aiming for a victory that could lead them to the World Cup berth by battling the winner of the Canada vs. Fiji matchup five days later.

All matches will be held at the newly renovated Terry Fox Stadium and will be available for streaming through the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

The squad includes players Tricia Doyle, Martha Dwyer (Aspley Devils), Jemma Gallagher (Corrimal Cougars), Molly Boyne, Aimee Clarke, Niamh Griffin, Emma Kelly, Lena Kibler, Cliodhna O'Sullivan, Anna Potterton (Dublin City Exiles), Stacy Hanley, Aifric Ní Ghibne (Galway Tribes), Storm Cobain, Mollie Young (Leigh Leopards), Iona McCusker, Polly Roberts, Jade Walker (London Broncos), Steph Carroll, Sarah Scambary (Mounties), and Lily Rogan (Wests Tigers).

Ireland prepared for their journey to Brampton, Ontario, with an impressive 42-6 victory over the Netherlands.