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Four debutants in the Ireland women's rugby team to face Japan

Four debutants in the Ireland women's rugby team to face Japan

There are four players making their debuts in the Ireland women's team for Saturday's first test in Japan.

Full back Meabh Deely, right winger Natasja Behan, outside centre Aoife Dalton and Carlow's Dannah O'Brien at out half will make their first starts in green.

Coach Greg McWilliams has named a relatively young squad for the first of their two tour matches, with Taryn Schultzer and Leah Tarpey poised to make their debuts from the bench.

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O'Brien comes into the side having just completed her Leaving Certificate. The Tullow teenager has been a member of the Women's National Talent Squad.

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Most notable from the youthful setup is the inclusion of four debutants in an exciting young back line.

Nichola Fryday, a former Kilkenny college student, will captain the 15.

Action gets underway on Saturday at 10:40 Irish time

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