Perry will be an Ell' of an addition for us

IRELAND coach Scott Bemand has defended putting former England star Ellena Perry on the bench for his side's last game before Rugby World Cup squad selection, against Canada in Belfast tomorrow.

- BY DEREK FOLEY

Bemand (pictured) worked with the England women's coaching setup before being made Ireland's Head coach in 2023, while Perry earned 11 England caps (2018-20).

"Elle Perry hasn't played for England since 2020," said Bemand.

"She's a very good player, she started both the PWR semifinal and final last year so in terms of capability at playing level....

"She is known to some of our group with Gloucester-Hartpury, has an Irish grandparent, so we've been able to utilise connections from before.