Ireland co-captain Edel McMahon has made a significant recovery from a knee injury to start in Sunday's Women's Rugby World Cup Pool C opener against Japan at Franklin's Gardens, Northampton. McMahon, who missed both of Ireland's warm-up games, is set to play as the open-side flanker, showcasing her readiness and determination to lead the team.

Team Adjustments and Strategy Head coach Scott Bemand has made four strategic changes from the warm-up defeat by Canada on August 9. McMahon will share the leadership role with Sam Monaghan, who is positioned in the second row. This adjustment sees Fiona Tuite moving into the back row, enhancing the team's dynamic with her Ulster teammate Brittany Hogan and McMahon.

In the midfield, Bemand has opted for Aoife Dalton and Eve Higgins, pushing Enya Breen to the bench and excluding Nancy McGillivray from the squad. The back three welcomes the return of Amee-Leigh Costigan, who will join Stacey Flood and Beibhinn Parsons, the latter having scored two tries in the previous game against Canada.

Half-Back Continuity The half-back partnership remains strong with Aoibheann Reilly and Dannah O'Brien continuing their collaboration. Bemand expressed confidence in the selected squad, emphasizing the importance of a strong start in the World Cup to set a positive tone for the tournament.

Injury Impact and Team Dynamics The absence of star back row Aoife Wafer, due to knee surgery, is a notable setback for Ireland. Wafer, who was instrumental in the Six Nations, is expected to join the squad post the Japan game. The team also misses Dorothy Wall and Erin King, both sidelined with injuries.

Looking Ahead Following the opener against Japan, Ireland is set to face Spain on August 31 and the reigning world champions New Zealand on September 7. These matches are crucial for Ireland to advance in the tournament and make a mark on the global stage.

Ireland's Line-up The team will start with Flood; Parsons, Dalton, Higgins, Costigan; O'Brien, Reilly; O'Dowd, Jones, Djougang, Campbell, Monaghan (co-capt), Tuite, McMahon (co-capt), Hogan. The bench includes Moloney-MacDonald, Perry, McGrath, Corri-Fallon, Moore, Lane, Breen, McGann, ready to support and adapt as the game progresses.