The Celtic Challenge has been stripped of unilateral competitions since its inception in 2023, which enhances concerns on its viability as a major piece of preparation of the Ireland squad for six nations.
IRFU performance director David Humphrees went to London Irish when professional men’s game was in his early stages before returning to Ulster and winning the European Cup in 1999.
He believes that when he and other Test Regular kept their business abroad, I gave time to create a “sustainable, successful player-development route and competitive league” and expected to see the same in women’s game.
“Our ambition is actually four who competed in Celtic challenge,” he said
“When our players happened in Celtic Challenge this year, there are a lot of blowouts in the Games.
“PWR as it stands currently more competitive. We will ever stand in the way of those who want to go and get a different experience while we are building women’s games.”
Cantwell said that the “first step” for the target of four professional provinces has been slate for the 2026-27 season.
“This is the project on which we are working at the moment,” he said.
“All these bells and whistles will not be seen. Even though we look at PWR, PWR started in 2017, it is now 2025 and it is still constructing and it is still not found fully contracted players with any stretch, but it has a daily training environment, which you have 20 hours a week, where players are training, full -time coaches, S&C (tight) Competitive sports are reaching.
“We want to do it responsibly and continuously – these are two words we are working on.”