Hockey: Ireland women prepare for 'cut-throat' World Cup qualifiers in Italy

The event will take place in Pisa from October 21-24 with eight teams taking part looking to join the five European sides already qualified for the World Cup

Ireland women's hockey team general view 2021. Picture: Sportsfile

Following a brief break in the wake of their maiden Olympic voyage, the Irish women's hockey team are back in action next month as preparations gets underway for the World Cup qualifiers - with just one spot up for grabs in Italy.

The event will take place in Pisa from October 21-24 with eight teams taking part looking to join co-hosts Netherlands and Spain, as well as Belgium, England and Germany at next year's showpiece event.