Ireland centre Sene Naoupu feels that facing England should not overawe the players in green as the Women’s Six Nations gets underway on Friday.
The home side will be underdogs in Donnybrook Stadium against a formidable English side but Naoupu thinks Ireland should not limit their capabilities.
She told RTÉ Sport: "We get to test ourselves against the second best team in the world. That is what it's all about and bringing ourselves together as a squad and matchday 23.
"It's just an exciting time for ourselves and the management team. We have been preparing really well. The entire squad has been putting in serious effort over the Christmas and New Year break.
"We have been putting in some good performances at training and pushing for places. It has been a really positive environment and we're just really looking forward to it.
"There is a self belief in us. We certainly believe we can get a positive result. All we're focusing on is we get a positive performance and do the basics very well.
"We have to do our role and the result will take care of ourselves. I'm personally excited to see how we do and genuinely excited so I hope we get people down to support us on Friday night."
Head coach Adam Griggs has named an Ireland team featuring a blend of youth and experience.
Former centre Nicole Fowley makes a rare appearance as Ireland look for a new outhalf.
Linda Djougang, Anne Marie O'Hora and Kathryn Dane could come off the bench for a first senior match in green.
Naoupu is happy to see some changes for the new campaign and what it might bring, even if it eventually threatens her own position.
She concluded: "These young girls have been super-exciting to train with. There is a number of them coming through and that is what it's all about.
"I feel we have the pyramid right with building the foundations for young players to come through. It's a really positive step and exactly what you need. It's becoming a milestone for Irish rugby
"When you're at this level it's all about the team. It's a privilege to play for Ireland and if someone is pushing me to be the best I can be, then that is only a good thing.
"If there is a situation where someone experienced doesn't get to wear the jersey, then that's a super thing because it means that Irish rugby is pushing on and that's all we can ask for. We represent Ireland so we want the best."
Watch Ireland women's team play England on RTÉ2 from 4:45pm on Friday, as well as live commentary on Radio 1 Extra
