Women’s Six Nations 2026: Eve Higgins back in an Irish change to play Wales

Ireland head coach Scott Baymond has made one change to his starting XV for Saturday’s Women’s Six Nations home game against Wales at Aphidia Stadium.

Eve Higgins replaces Nancy McGillivray, who was involved in the matchday squad, at the center of the only change after the 26-7 defeat against France in Clermont two weeks ago.

Higgins started the 33-12 loss to England before dropping to the bench in the big 57-20 win over Italy and the 26-7 loss against France.

After the final week of the tournament, Ireland will look to get back on track and secure their second home win of the campaign.

Wales are looking for their first win of the campaign after defeats to Scotland, France and England.

Stacey Flood continues at full-back with Baben Parsons on the right wing and Robin O’Connor on the opposite flank.

Aoife Dalton partners Higgins in midfield with Dannah O’Brien and Emily Lane – who has assisted three tries in this year’s tournament – remaining at half-back.

Elena Perry, Cliodhna Moloney-McDonald, who scored Ireland’s only try against France, and Linda Jaughang in an unchanged front row, with Dorothy Wall partner Fiona Twitt, who played every minute of the tournament, in the second row.

Aoife Wafer, captain Erin King and Brittany Hogan are in the back row for the fourth game in a row, while Bemand makes several changes to the bench for a 6:2 split.

Sadh McGrath and Grace Moore return among the replacements, while 20-year-old full-back Niamh Gallagher is set to make his debut off the bench.