That saying about the world being a smaller place? Depends on the wifi.

The IRFU have announced the structures and pathway which they hope will take an Irish women’s team to the 2013 Rugby World Cup Sevens, and possibly the 2016 Olympics — but there will be no similar initiative in the men’s game.

IRELAND face tournament hosts, the Arabian Gulf, in the Rugby World Cup Sevens Bowl quarter-finals today after a Friday of mixed of emotions in Dubai.

IRELAND manager Hugh McCaughey is confident his side can “spring a few surprises” at the Rugby Sevens World Cup in Dubai this week.