WATERFORD NATIVE NIAMH Briggs has been named the new captain of the Ireland Women’s team, replacing the retired Fiona Coghlan.
Briggs celebrates last year's memorable win over New Zealand. Dan Sheridan / INPHO
Dan Sheridan / INPHO / INPHO
Briggs has won 45 caps for Ireland since her debut against Italy in 2008, and was nominated for IRB Player of The Year in 2014 following her stunning performances at the World Cup in France.
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The Munster and UL Bohemians fullback is hugely respected within the playing group, meaning she was a natural choice as the new Irish captain for Anthony Eddy, the IRFU’s director of sevens and women’s rugby.
“It’s a massive privilege to represent your country at any level, but to captain your country is a great honour and I was delighted to be asked,” said Briggs.
It’s a hugely proud moment for me and for my family, who have been great support throughout my career
“To follow in the footsteps of an unbelievable leader in Fiona Coghlan is a fantastic honour and I look forward to captaining this great squad.”
Leading Ireland into new territory is the first task as captain, with 12 uncapped players in head coach Tom Tierney’s Six Nations squad. Having enjoyed a strong victory against Wales in a warm-up fixture at Ashbourne RFC last weekend, Ireland open their campaign against Italy on 6 February.
Briggs' kicking game is world-class.
“There has been a lot of change in the women’s set-up, with several uncapped players and a new coaching team,” said Eddy of Briggs’ selection as captain. “Niamh’s experience at the highest level will bring a continuity of leadership within the squad.”
“She has always set a terrific standard as a player and we know she will continue to do so as captain.”
RBS 6 Nations Ireland Women’s Fixtures:
Friday 6 February [19:00] Italy v Ireland, Stadio Mario Lodigiani
Friday 13 February [19:30] Ireland v France, Ashbourne RFC
Friday 27 February [19:30] Ireland v England, Ashbourne RFC
Sunday 15 March [12:00] Wales v Ireland, Swansea RFC
Sunday 22 March [13:00] Scotland v Ireland, Broadwood Stadium
Niamh Briggs has been named the new Ireland Women captain
WATERFORD NATIVE NIAMH Briggs has been named the new captain of the Ireland Women’s team, replacing the retired Fiona Coghlan.
Briggs has won 45 caps for Ireland since her debut against Italy in 2008, and was nominated for IRB Player of The Year in 2014 following her stunning performances at the World Cup in France.
The Munster and UL Bohemians fullback is hugely respected within the playing group, meaning she was a natural choice as the new Irish captain for Anthony Eddy, the IRFU’s director of sevens and women’s rugby.
“It’s a massive privilege to represent your country at any level, but to captain your country is a great honour and I was delighted to be asked,” said Briggs.
“To follow in the footsteps of an unbelievable leader in Fiona Coghlan is a fantastic honour and I look forward to captaining this great squad.”
Leading Ireland into new territory is the first task as captain, with 12 uncapped players in head coach Tom Tierney’s Six Nations squad. Having enjoyed a strong victory against Wales in a warm-up fixture at Ashbourne RFC last weekend, Ireland open their campaign against Italy on 6 February.
“There has been a lot of change in the women’s set-up, with several uncapped players and a new coaching team,” said Eddy of Briggs’ selection as captain. “Niamh’s experience at the highest level will bring a continuity of leadership within the squad.”
“She has always set a terrific standard as a player and we know she will continue to do so as captain.”
RBS 6 Nations Ireland Women’s Fixtures:
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Captain Six Nations Ireland niamh briggs Skipper Waterford Women