The opening weekend of the Championship boasts a much-anticipated clash as England host Ireland at Allianz Stadium in a match that has already broken records for ticket sales.
Few opening fixtures carry this level of intrigue. England arrive as defending champions and favourites to retain their crown, boasting remarkable consistency and depth across their squad. Ireland, meanwhile, continue their upward trajectory under former Bath and Leicester scrum-half Scott Bemand, and will view this as an opportunity to test themselves against the benchmark in the world game.
With both sides targeting strong starts to their campaigns, this encounter provides a chance to set the tone for the entire Championship. Expect intensity, physicality and attacking quality as two proud rugby nations collide to kick off their 2026 campaigns.
🗓️ Date: Saturday 11 April
🕑 Kick-off: 14:25 BST
🏟️ Venue: Allianz Stadium, Twickenham
📺 Broadcast: BBC (UK), RTÉ (IRE) - How to watch
📝: Referee: Maggie Cogger-Orr
🎟️ Tickets: RFU
Players to watch
🌹 ENGLAND: Uncapped Christiana Balogun is the Bristol Bears powerhouse whose destructive scrummaging and explosive carrying in the loose could make her the perfect spearhead for John Mitchell’s high-tempo evolution.
In the second row, Lilli Ives Campion provides a vital tactical edge; the Loughborough Lightning lock is a towering presence in the lineout with a relentless work rate at the breakdown.
The electric Millie David, also uncapped, is a feared finisher for Bristol who possesses the world-class speed and "handbrake-off" instinct to turn any half-chance into a score.
☘️ IRELAND: For Ireland’s trip to Allianz Stadium, uncapped prop Sophie Barrett might be one to watch; the Ulster standout has dominated the Celtic Challenge with her technical scrummaging and relentless breakdown work.
In the heart of the pack, Neve Jones remains the ultimate defensive anchor, bringing a world-class tackle count and Gloucester-Hartpury title-winning experience to the front row.
Exciting uncapped fullback Niamh Gallagher, who plays for Trailfinders in nearby Ealing, is known for her clever lines and high rugby IQ - making her a potent threat in a rapidly evolving Irish backline.
Last three Championship meetings:
2025: IRE 5-49 ENG
2024: ENG 88-10 IRE
2023: IRE 0-48 ENG
Ireland out to buck the trend?
England undeniably hold the upper hand in this fixture, with the Red Roses consistently among the strongest sides in world rugby.
However, Ireland have shown steady improvement in recent seasons, narrowing the gap through enhanced physicality, defensive organisation and attacking ambition. Performances have suggested a team growing in confidence and cohesion, set in motion in no small part by a stunning victory against the Black Ferns in late 2024. Ireland, on their day, can be a match for anyone.
Scott Bemand's side will also be looking to build on the consistency they've shown in the past two editions of the Championship, having finished third in 2025 and 2024.
England v Ireland: FAQs
When is England vs Ireland in the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations? Saturday 11th April.
Where will England vs Ireland be played? At the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.
What time does England vs Ireland kick off? 14:45 BST.
Is England vs Ireland part of the Guinness Women’s Six Nations? Yes. This is the second fixture of the opening day of the 2026 Championship, set against the backdrop of a record-breaking crowd with over 67,000 tickets already sold.
Which round of the 2026 Six Nations is England vs Ireland? Round one - the opening weekend of the tournament.
How have England and Ireland performed recently? England enter the tournament as 2025 World Cup winners and defending Grand Slam champions, looking to maintain their dominance under head coach John Mitchell. Ireland arrive in London with significant momentum and a point to prove, fuelled by a positive 2025 campaign and the integration of several standout performers from the Celtic Challenge.
Who are the players to watch in England vs Ireland? England will be led for the first time by new captain Megan Jones, with the electric pace of Millie David and the power of Christiana Balogun expected to ignite the Red Roses' attack.
For Ireland, veteran hooker Neve Jones will anchor the defence with her world-class tackle count, while the uncapped duo of prop Sophie Barrett and creative fullback Niamh Gallagher are tipped to make an impact on the international stage.
Where can I watch England vs Ireland live on TV or stream? In the UK, the match will be broadcast on the BBC. In Ireland, it will be shown on RTÉ. For viewers outside these regions, please consult our 'Where to Watch' guide for local international listings.
Where can I find the latest England vs Ireland team news? Official team announcements will be shared on the Six Nations Rugby website, our WhatsApp channel, and across all official social media platforms as we approach match day.