Scott Bemand has been announced as the new head coach of the Ireland Women's rugby team.
The Englishman has a lot of pedigree, and during his time as England Lead/Assistant Coach - from 2015 to 2023 - he helped see them to six Six Nations titles and two runner-ups at the previous two World Cups.
“I am proud to join the IRFU at this exciting time for the game in Ireland," Bemand said in a statement after his appointment.
It is clear speaking to the IRFU across the course of the interview process how ambitious they are to grow the women’s game and I believe that there is a promising talent pool of players who will help create a new chapter for the game here.
I look forward to working with the players and coaches and shaping a new path.
Scott Bemand Joins Ireland
22 October 2006; Irish rugby ; Frank Sheahan, Munster, in action against Scott Bemand, Leicester Tigers. Heineken Cup 2006-2007, Pool 4, Round 1, Leicester Tigers v Munster, Welford Road, Leicester, England. Picture credit: Pat Murphy / SPORTSFILE
This is a massive signing ang hopefully signal of intent going forward
Scott has a proven track record hopefully himself and Elaine are given all the tools to make the Irish national team a force going forward https://t.co/EjaoLNTs1l— The 2nd Row (@the2ndRow) July 27, 2023
Fair to say that hiring English coaches hasn't worked out too badly for Irish rugby of recent!
Bemand looks like a great get. https://t.co/RXvoGK2mxa
— EK Rugby Analysis (@ek_rugby) July 27, 2023
READ HERE: Predicting Ireland's 23 For The 2027 Rugby World Cup In Australia
The former Harlequins, Leicester, and Bath scrum-half will join the IRFU on August 21, ahead of of Ireland’s WXV3 campaign in Dubai, in October.
IRFU Head of Women’s Performance & Pathways Gillian McDarby, welcomed the appointment of Bemand in a statement on the IRFU's website:
"We are delighted to announce Scott’s appointment and believe that he will bring a fresh and dynamic approach to the Ireland coaching set-up.
"It was clear from the extensive interview process that Scott was a strong candidate and he is passionate and focused on driving women’s rugby in Ireland forward at all levels in the months and years to come.
SEE ALSO: Eddie Jones Throws Bizarre Dig At New Zealand Ahead Of Bledisloe Showdown
