Canada Women's Rugby Gears Up for World Cup with Ireland Test Match

Canada's coach, Kevin Rouet, has made three adjustments to the team's starting lineup for the upcoming test match against Ireland. This match serves as the final preparation for the second-ranked Canadians before the Rugby World Cup.

The changes include Caroline Crossley entering the back row, replacing Gabby Senft, with Fabiola Forteza moving to No. 8. Justine Pelletier will start at scrum half, taking over from Olivia Apps, who will now be on the bench. Alysha Corrigan returns to the wing after recovering from an injury.

Senft is being rested, while Pelletier offers a different style of play at scrum half. Apps provides a fast-paced option off the bench. Sarah-Maude Lachance, among the replacements, is expected to make her first appearance since May.

Rouet has kept roster changes to a minimum, aiming for consistency before the World Cup. The match will be held at Affidea Stadium in Belfast.

The last time these teams met was in October at the WXV 1 tournament, where Canada secured a 21-8 victory in Langley, B.C. Canada's overall record against Ireland is 3-1-0, with previous wins in Dublin in 2016 and at the 2002 World Cup. Their only loss was in 2006 in Galway.

Rouet emphasized the importance of this warm-up game, stating that it is a crucial opportunity to refine the team's game plan and ensure they are fully prepared for the World Cup. He acknowledged Ireland as a tough opponent, highlighting their performance at the WXV tournament.

Ireland's coach, Scott Bemand, has made ten changes to his starting lineup. Bemand sees the match as a chance to assess the team's progress and build momentum. The Irish players will be motivated as their World Cup roster is set to be announced soon.

Following the Ireland match, Rouet will give his team five days off before the World Cup. Canada, which finished fourth in the last World Cup in November 2022, will begin the tournament against Fiji, followed by matches against Wales and Scotland. Ireland is in Pool C with New Zealand, Japan, and Spain.