Premiership Women’s Rugby Final: Ireland hooker Neve Jones ready for ‘hectic week’ with club and country

Ireland open their campaign against France in Belfast next Saturday with Scott Bemand’s side returning to action for the first time since their successful WXV1 campaign in October.

They kicked off their time in Canada with a win over New Zealand and, after a loss to the hosts, finished off with victory over USA.

Having came third in last year’s Six Nations, securing qualification for this year’s World Cup in the process, Jones believes Ireland are “adding” to their game in each Test window.

“Over the last 12 to 18 months, we’ve grown hugely as a squad,” she said.

“I think we always know it’s going to be a challenge, but when we come in together we push each other to grow from strength to strength.

“Every time we come together, we’re adding another layer to our game.”

Saturday’s game against France may not be the only meeting between the sides this year, with a potential World Cup quarter-final a possibility too.

Jones, however, says Ireland remain focused on the Six Nations.

“At the minute we’re just looking at the Six Nations, that’s the next thing on the calendar and we’ll start with that and build into the year as it comes.

“After that we can look further onto the horizon, but until then we can just take it step by step.

“It’s a very exciting time for the women’s game but as players we know that come Monday it’s France week and we’re building in to play them.”