Ireland back row Aoife Wafer has been ruled out of the WXV Global Series encounter against Japan on Sunday. Wafer sustained a minor injury during training, sidelining her for the game in Galway.
Head coach Scott Bemand has implemented six changes to the squad following Ireland's 40-36 loss to the USA in the series opener last weekend. Beibhinn Parsons, Anna McGann, and Aoibheann Reilly are brought into the backline, while Eilís Cahill will make her first start for Ireland in the front row.
Further changes see Neve Jones drafted in at hooker and Brittany Hogan selected in the back row. Uncapped 21-year-old hooker Beth Buttimer has also been included in the matchday 23 for the first time and is expected to make her Test debut from the bench.