Follow live coverage with text and score updates as Ireland open their campaign against Japan at Franklin's Gardens, Northampton.

Eve Higgins pounced with the key try as Ireland emerged from a test of character to launch their World Cup with a 42-14 victory over Japan. Japan, positioned six places below their opponents in the global rankings in 11th place, were in the midst of an swashbuckling fightback at Franklin’s Gardens as they battled to overturn a 28-14 deficit.

Béibhinn Parsons will play her first competitive 15s game for Ireland since the 2024 Six Nations having been named in the starting line-up ahead of Sunday’s World Cup opener against Japan.

Ireland open their World Cup campaign with a six-try victory over Japan in an impressive display at Franklin's Gardens.