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Jones accepts 'important role' off the bench
TL;DR
Neve Jones will play an important role off the bench for Ireland in their Six Nations match against Wales. This marks a shift from her previous starting position in last year's tournament and the World Cup.
Key points
- Neve Jones is named on the bench for Ireland's game against Wales
- She has come off the bench in all three games of the campaign
- Jones was a regular starter in last year's tournament and the World Cup
Neve JonesIrelandWalesSix Nations
Jones is named on the bench for Ireland's game against Wales on Saturday [Getty Images]
Ireland hooker Neve Jones accepts that she has "an important role" to play off the bench for Scott Bemand's side in the Six Nations.
The 27-year-old has come off the bench in all three of Ireland's games so far in the campaign and is again amongst the replacements for their home game against Wales at the Affidea Stadium on Saturday [18:30 BST].
It is a change of roles for Jones, who was a regular starter during last year's tournament and the World Cup, but one she is willing to embrace given the competitive nature of the Irish squad.
"It's a different game you play when you come off the bench, you have to bring the energy for the girls that have played 40-50 minutes and it's a important role," she said.
"We're at a point where the competition is so high, any opportunity to pull on a green jersey is very exciting."
After a fallow week, which Jones said was "brilliant" for Ireland, Bemand's side will be looking to bounce back from defeat against France last time out when they host Wales in Belfast.
Jones is hoping that Ireland can build on their previous home win when they thumped Italy 57-20 in Galway.
"You want to play week in, week out, but the fallow week came at a good time. We had three tough games which shows how far the women's game has come these days, all games are really competitive," she added.
"We've played some really good rugby in the first three games, we just need to neaten up. We've missed out on one-two percenters which has been our own doing so we just need to sharpen up on that."
Wales have lost their three games so far in the tournament against Scotland, France and England, but did pick up a losing bonus-point after scoring 26 points against the world champions and Jones is wary of the threat they will pose.
"We're constantly growing as a squad but we know Wales have gone from strength to strength as well.
"They haven't had the results they've wanted, but the rugby they want to play is exciting.
"Sean Lynn has done a great job with them, so bring on Saturday and we'll put on a show I'm sure."
Q&A
What role is Neve Jones playing in the Six Nations?
Neve Jones is playing an important role off the bench for Ireland in the Six Nations.
Why is Neve Jones on the bench for the game against Wales?
Neve Jones is on the bench due to the competitive nature of the Irish squad, marking a change from her previous starting role.
When is Ireland's game against Wales in the Six Nations?
Ireland's game against Wales is scheduled for Saturday at 18:30 BST.