Ireland's World Cup semi-final bid boosted by return of back-row Aoife Wafer

Her battle back to full fitness from a knee injury is now ready for completion with an appearance against last-eight opponents France in Exeter on Sunday looking likely

Aoife Wafer was the player of the tournament at the Six Nations last season. Pic: Ben Brady/Inpho

Ireland Women's bid to reach a first World Cup semi-final since 2014 is poised for a huge boost with back-row star Aoife Wafer making her tournament entry.

The number eight, last season's Six Nations player of the championship, missed all three pool stage appointments with Japan, Spain and New Zealand.