Ireland suffer major Aoife Wafer blow ahead of South Africa Tests

Six Nations Player of the Championship Aoife Wafer has been ruled out of Ireland's upcoming two-game series against South Africa. The 23-year-old forward underwent successful surgery and will miss the tour as well as the start of Harlequins' domestic season. Although Irish Rugby did not disclose the specifics of her injury, she missed Ireland's recent matches against Japan following an appearance against the USA Women's Eagles.

Head coach Scott Bemand named a 30-player squad captained by Erin King for the tour, which features fixtures against the Springbok Women on October 24 and October 31 in Cape Town. Ireland remains without Sam Monaghan due to an Achilles injury, but lock Ruth Campbell returns following an ankle problem.