‘No ceiling’ for improving Ireland at Rugby World Cup – Jones

As Ireland’s preparations for the start of the Rugby World Cup come to an end, Ireland’s Neve Jones says there is “no ceiling” for her team.

In Pool C of the tournament in England, Scott Bemand’s team will face Japan, Spain, and New Zealand.

Jones, who was a member of the Irish side that lost to the Irish in the final World Cup in 2021, has urged her team to appear on the big stage as they attempt to escape the group stage.

“The coaching staff and players we’ve all bought into everything,” she told BBC Sport, “but we’ve been on an incredible journey, from coming last in the Six Nations two years ago to the World Cup.”

“We want to strive for excellence because we are all on the same page.” No ceiling is set for our performance, so it’s about coming in and giving it a try.

Since moving from Malone in 2022, Jones, who featured in Saturday’s 27-21 victory over Scotland, has won three medals at Gloucester-Hartpury.

After some difficult years playing for her country and seeing sustained success at club level, she is pleased that she has been able to enjoy a return to results with Ireland.

“I would have really good seasons at Gloucester, and then I’d come here and pull on the green jersey is something you’re proud to do,” she continued.