Parsons primed for World Cup bow after leg breaks

Pool C of the Women’s Rugby World Cup: Ireland v. Japan

Date: Sunday, August 24th, 2019 Kick-off: 12:00 BST

The preparation for Beibhinn Parsons’ first Women’s Rugby World Cup was, to put it mildly, less than ideal.

The 23-year-old wing broke her leg during the Paris Olympics this year when competing in Ireland Sevens.

Parsons missed out on Ireland XV’s memorable WXV1 campaign, which included a thrilling 29-27 victory over world champions New Zealand.

After missing the 2025 Women’s Six Nations and putting her hopes on the line for the World Cup, Parsons broke her second leg during her December game against Cape Town.

The quick-tempered Connacht back made it to Scott Bemand’s squad and will make her Sunday World Cup debut against Japan.

Parsons told BBC Sport NI, “It’s been a difficult year, but I’m one of the lucky ones where the timing worked out.”

“I’m thinking of all the girls who are currently hurt. They have a hard time missing a World Cup. Funny how you think things aren’t going your way despite the fact that I had the opportunity to recover and join the squad.

After making her Ireland debut at the age of 16, Parsons, who is only 23, is one of the most accomplished players in the country squad.

Galway native says she is prepared to make her mark on the biggest stage now that Ireland has failed to make it to the previous competition.

Parsons said, “I’ve been waiting a long time to find out what it’s all about.”

You already know that this is a level higher with our opening ceremony and how we were welcomed into the airport. It’s really exciting because they’ve given this so much support and funding.

Although Ireland are without Dorothy Wall, Aoife Wafer, and Erin King for the tournament, Parsons believes that Bemand’s side’s “sky’s the limit” in England.