Ciara Griffin: A Women’s Six Nations of ambition, redemption, and new beginnings

This rings as a warning shot for Ireland as a French side who want to throw off the shackles and just “joueux” can be a formidable and unforgiving opponent.

AMBITION: Ireland's Women’s Six Nations opener against France (Kingspan Stadium, 1pm) is a chance for Ireland to demonstrate their continuous progression under Scott Bemand. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Today's Women’s Six Nations opener against France (Kingspan Stadium, 1pm) is a chance for Ireland to demonstrate their continuous progression under Scott Bemand. 

It will be the team's first international competition since their second-place finish in WXV1 last October, where they beat the Black Ferns in an enthralling game of skill and hard work.