Rugby star Sophie Spence wants female Irish players to “receive an equal level of respect and treatment” as their male counterparts.

Ireland women’s coach Tom Tierney has named five uncapped players in his Six Nations squad but it is the absence of former World Player of the Year nominee Sophie Spence that stood out.

Spence is one of three players nominated for the World Rugby Women's Player of the Year award.

"Everyone always gears themselves up for this game especially.”