Ireland's head coach, Scott Bemand, has expressed strong confidence in Aoife Wafer's readiness for the upcoming Rugby World Cup quarter-final. Despite Wafer's absence in the Pool C game against New Zealand due to a pre-tournament knee surgery, Bemand believes her return is crucial for the knockout stages.

Wafer's Recovery and Team Strategy

Aoife Wafer, a standout player from the Women's Six Nations, has been recovering from knee surgery and has yet to feature in the tournament. Bemand revealed that while there was a temptation to include her in the game against New Zealand, the decision was made to prioritize her full recovery for the quarter-final.

"All the way through there has been a bit of a plan around Aoife, from the very beginning to her joining up with the group a couple of days after we arrived, and everything is tracking and trending," Bemand stated. "Aoife is back in training, she's doing well, and she's desperate to be involved."

Fiona Tuite's Expected Return

In addition to Wafer, Bemand also expects Fiona Tuite to return for the quarter-final. Tuite was ruled out of the New Zealand game due to a knock picked up against Spain, but Bemand is optimistic about her recovery.

"Medically she is ruled out for this weekend but she'll be fine for the following week," he added. "She's playing really well, really excited to get her back and we need her for a quarter-final."

Preparing for the Knockout Stages

With victories against Japan and Spain already secured, Ireland has guaranteed a place in the last eight. Bemand emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum as they head into the knockout phase.

"By winning the group, you're more in control of fixtures and games that come in the knockout stages," he agreed. "We've picked strong, New Zealand have picked strong and the occasion should get the game it deserves. The World Cup is ready for this game."

Building Momentum

Bemand highlighted the significance of using the game against New Zealand to build momentum for the quarter-final. "We'll both have moments when on top so it's how you capitalise on the opportunities. We know we have a quarter-final coming over the horizon and we can use this game to build momentum."

As Ireland prepares for this crucial match, the focus remains on ensuring key players like Wafer and Tuite are in top form for the challenges ahead.