Wafer return timely boost for France job

IRELAND are confident Aoife Wafer is ready to make an impact on the World Cup as she prepares for her tournament debut in tomorrow's quarterfinal against France.

- BY DON MARRINAN

The Six Nations player of the year was ruled out of the group stage by knee surgery but in a timely boost ahead of the Sandy Park showdown, she has been cleared to play

Wafer replaces co-captain Edel McMahon, who suffered knee damage in Sunday's 40-0 mauling by New Zealand.

“We've all wanted to see Aoife back ‘on the pitch,” said Ireland head coach Scott Bemand (inset).

"She's been desperate to get out there and give herself to the cause.

“We're fully confident she's fit and ready.