Ireland's women's rugby team is gearing up for a crucial WXV campaign, which will feature matches against the United States, Japan, and South Africa. The team will host the United States in Dublin on 20 September, followed by two home games against Japan and two Tests against South Africa in late October. Aoife Wafer, a key player for Ireland as a number eight, believes it's "only a matter of time" before the team joins the ranks of the world's elite rugby sides. Ireland narrowly lost to France in the quarter-finals of last year's Rugby World Cup and placed third in the past two Women's Six Nations tournaments, finishing behind England and France. However, under the leadership of head coach Scott Bemand, the team showed strong form in the 2026 Six Nations, winning all three of their home matches. Wafer was instrumental in this success, scoring five tries across five games and being named player of the championship for the second year in a row. Wafer has emphasized the team's ambition to be recognized among the world's best. She highlighted the importance of winning both at home and on the road, noting that each upcoming match will present unique challenges. The USA, Japan, and South Africa each have distinct strengths, and Wafer acknowledged the need for Ireland to adapt to these different styles of play. Despite a challenging 2025, marked by multiple injuries including knee surgery, a broken collarbone, and a re-ruptured MCL, Wafer has recovered and is now feeling fit and ready to return to training and competition. She sustained a broken knuckle in her right hand during a match against Scotland in May, but that hasn't hindered her readiness for the upcoming campaign. The WXV tournament features the top 10 women's rugby teams, with Ireland facing off against the USA, Japan, and South Africa. Wafer described the USA as a physically strong team with pressure in the breakdown and a solid scrum. Japan is known for their breakdown dominance and quick backs, while South Africa is recognized for their physicality and powerful pack and backs. These encounters will test Ireland's ability to compete at the highest level.