World Cup interest can 'change the game' - Flood

Stacey Flood has won 20 caps for Ireland

Women's Rugby World Cup - Pool C: Ireland v Japan

Venue: Franklin's Gardens, Northampton Date: Sunday, 24 August Kick-off: 12:00 BST

Coverage: Live on BBC Two, BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra, BBC Sport website and app.

Ireland full-back Stacey Flood believes backing from home will be a "really important" factor at the World Cup in England.

The side missed out on the global showpiece three years ago in New Zealand but have steadily rebuilt in the intervening period with results showing real improvement after head coach Scott Bemand was appointed in July 2023.

With Ireland's campaign beginning against Japan at Franklin's Gardens on Sunday, the tournament will bring another level of attention.

"I feel like having eyes on women's rugby and our team is never going to be a bad thing," said Flood of the potential for added pressure.

"We want the Irish people behind us, we want to have the support of everyone.

"This is going to be such a major pedestal for women's rugby that I think this is going to change the game, this whole tournament, and I think it's really important to get eyes on that."

Ireland, who will also face Spain and New Zealand in Pool C, will attempt to focus on their own strengths rather than those of the opposition said Flood.

"Japan, I feel like everything they do, they're so diligent and, I feel like they might not be the biggest team, but they're so skilful.

"They're really good jackal threats and I think we know what they're good at, but it's also just about bringing it back to our squad and what our strengths are, not playing too much to the opposition but focussing on what we can do in the green jersey."