From ‘slurry spreading’ comment to Ireland recall – Cliodhna Moloney returns to squad after three years away
Cliodhna Moloney hasn't played for Ireland since 2021.
Cliodhna Moloney's time in the wilderness is over after she was added to the Ireland Six Nations squad by head coach Scott Bemand.
The Exeter Chiefs hooker (30) has not played for Ireland since 2021 when she was picked for a pair of November internationals in the weeks after she'd criticised IRFU official Anthony Eddy for 'slurry spreading' when he blamed the players for not qualifying for the following year's World Cup.
Although she's constantly been a strong performer in the English Premiership, Moloney's face hasn't fit for Ireland and former coach Greg McWilliams never picked her, citing her form.
IRFU chief executive Kevin Potts reiterated that stance, saying the union had not blacklisted the Galway native but until now Bemand has resisted any temptation to call on Moloney.
She'll automatically come into contention to face Wales in Round Three as Ireland look to end their long losing streak in the competition.
Lauren Delany is following the return to play protocols after a head injury but is expected to train next week, while Ruth Campbell is rehabbing a hand injury.
Ailsa Hughes and Kate Flannery have returned to club duty, while Natasja Behan and Clare Gorman have travelled to Hong Kong for this weekends HSBC SVNS tournament.
