Daley named Ulster skipper for 2025-26 campaign
India Daley says it will be an "incredible honour" to captain Ulster in the 2025-26 season.The hooker takes over the role from Irish international Kathryn Dane."Representing my home province has always meant a lot to me, so to now lead the team is something I'm really proud of," the 24-year-old told the Ulster Rugby website."I feel lucky to be part of such a special group who are building year on year."Two seasons ago, Ulster secured their first interprovincial victory since 2012, but last season finished bottom of the table with one draw and two defeats from their three matches and were then beaten by Connacht in the play-offs."We've got so much talent and potential in this squad, I want us to back ourselves every time we step onto the pitch," Daley added."We know that we are capable of more than what we have shown in recent seasons, and we want to prove that in the upcoming interpro campaign."With the Women's Rugby World Cup to take place in England during August and September, Irish internationals will not feature for their provinces this season.In their absence, there are eight newcomers to the Ulster panel as they build towards their opener against Leinster on 10 August. Forwards Cara McLean, Ruby Starrett and Sophie McAlister, and backs Erin McConalogue, Farrah Cartin McCloskey, Georgia Boyce, Katie Gilmour and Siobhan Sheerin, are all included for the first time.
Ulster squad 2025-26
Forwards: Aishling O'Connell, Ava Fannin, Brenda Barr (vice-captain), Bronach Cassidy, Cara McLean, Christy Hill, Ellen Patterson, India Daley (captain), Katie Hetherington, Keelin Brady, Lauren Maginnes, Maebh Clenaghan, Megan Simpson, Moya Hill, Rebecca Beacom, Ruby Starrett, Sarah Roberts, Sophie Barrett, Sophie McAlister, Stacey Sloan.Backs: Abby Moyles, Catherine Martin, Erin McConalogue, Farrah Cartin McCloskey, Georgia Boyce, Katie Gilmour, Kelly McCormill, Lauren Farrell-McCabe, Lucy Thompson, Niamh Marley, Paige Smyth, Rachael McIlroy, Siobhan Sheerin, Sophie Meeke, Tara O'Neill.
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