Head of strategy Lynne Cantwell says World Cup 'massive' to maximise potential growth of women's game 

The IRFU’s belated focus on accelerating the women’s game in Ireland has reignited the national team from its nadir of successive Six Nations wooden spoons in 2022 and 2023 with head coach Scott Bemand’s rejuvenated squad securing qualification with a third place in the 2024 championship

Head of Women’s Strategy for Irish Rugby Lynne Cantwell. Picture: Ben Brady/Inpho

Six months into her role as the IRFU’s Head of Women’s Strategy, Lynne Cantwell understands the complexities facing her to accelerate the development of the women’s game in Ireland. 

Yet, as Ireland’s most capped player and Grand Slam winner launches the strategy she was brought home six months ago from a high-profile role as Women’s High Performance Manager for the South African Rugby Union to formulate and implement, Cantwell also understands the importance of this year’s Women’s World Cup in England to maximise the potential for growth here.