Overview

• Former Ireland captain Fiona Coghlan described how a rigorous fitness regime and targeted kick-and-chase pressure underpinned the 17-14 upset of New Zealand at Marcoussis in 2014.
• Alison Miller’s decisive 60th-minute long-range try emerged from Ireland’s precise game plan after identifying gaps in the Black Ferns’ defensive alignment.
• Stacey Waaka reflected on her role in the Black Ferns’ 34-31 2022 World Cup final victory over England, revealing she concealed a high ankle sprain while orchestrating key attacking moves.
• Waaka’s April 25 selection for her third Rugby World Cup underscores New Zealand’s squad continuity as they prepare to face Ireland in their final Pool C fixture.
• Recent coverage highlights growing parity between the teams, recalling Ireland’s 29-27 WXV1 win over the Black Ferns in Vancouver as evidence of an increasingly competitive rivalry.