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Sport: RugbyCountry: EnglandCategory: Transactions

IRFU explores potential inclusion in Premiership Women's Rugby

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 17, 2026, 8:55 AM

Last updated Sep 17, 2026

IRFU explores potential inclusion in Premiership Women's Rugby
Summary

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU), led by Lynne Cantwell, is awaiting a decision regarding a joint bid with Welsh and Scottish unions to join the Premiership Women's Rugby (PWR). This proposal follows an expression of interest process initiated by PWR for potential expansion, which was confirmed by the IRFU earlier this year. A decision on the bid is expected within the next three to four months. Cantwell emphasized the significance of this opportunity for Irish teams to compete in a cross-border league, which could enhance the development of elite players in Ireland. Currently, Irish teams participate in the Interpro league and the Celtic Challenge, which has been dominated by Irish sides since its inception in 2023.

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Yahoo SportsBBC Sport
Key Details
  • •IRFU confirms joint bid for PWR inclusion with Welsh and Scottish unions.
  • •Decision on the bid expected in three to four months.
  • •Potential merger could occur by the 2028-29 season.
  • •Current participation in Interpro league and Celtic Challenge.
  • •Lynne Cantwell advocates for enhanced competition for Irish players.
Latest Updates
  • 8:55 AMYahoo Sports — IRFU await news of 'massive opportunity' to join PWR
  • 8:45 AMBBC Sport — Irish Rugby awaits news of 'massive opportunity' to join PWR
What they're saying
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Lynne Cantwell, head of women's strategy for the IRFU, believes the potential of Irish sides forming part of a future British and Irish League represents a major opportunity.

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Lynne Cantwell, head of women's strategy for the IRFU, believes the potential of Irish sides forming part of a future British and Irish League represents a major opportunity.

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