Exeter's Ireland skipper McMahon to miss season

Edel McMahon has not played since being injured in Ireland's loss to New Zealand last month

Exeter Chiefs' Ireland co-captain Edel McMahon will miss the rest of the season as she prepares for knee surgery.

The 31-year-old forward helped her country reach the quarter-finals of last month's World Cup.

McMahon has not played since Ireland's final pool stage match against New Zealand when she was forced off with an injury.

But she will undergo a second knee operation this weekend and will not play again this season.

Exeter have brought in Canada forward Abby Duguid to replace McMahon.

"We do not like to see any of our players out of action for a prolonged period of time, but I know she will work her hardest to get back in the best shape she can be," Exeter head coach Steve Salvin told the club website.

McMahon added: "It's obviously devastating to miss the season ahead.

"A break for my body was something that's been lingering on for a while so I'm very grateful to get the support to do this now.

"My focus now is fully on recovery and getting back stronger than before. I'll be doing everything I can to contribute to the team off the pitch while I work towards getting back on it."

Former Loughborough forward Duguid made her debut for Canada in 2022 and has played three times for her country.

She can play at lock or back-row and offers versatility for Exeter's pack.

"With Edel's unfortunate injury ruling her out for the season, we needed to bring someone in of international class to maintain our squad depth," added Salvin.

"Abby is an outstanding back-five player with significant PWR and international experience and is a great addition to our group.

"We have a strong tradition of signing Canadian internationals and we are extremely happy to have another one on our books for the coming season."