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Out-half Nicole Fowley retires from international rugby

Nicole Fowley won 15 caps for Ireland
Nicole Fowley won 15 caps for Ireland

Connacht out-half Nicole Fowley has confirmed her retirement from international rugby.

The 32-year-old win 16 caps for Ireland across 10 seasons of the Test game.

Fowley made her Ireland debut in 2016 against England, winning her first three caps as part of that November's series against England, Canada and New Zealand.

The Sligo native had to wait until 2019 to add to her international tally, starting all five games in the number 10 shirt.

In recent seasons, Fowley has been working alongside Dannah O’Brien as Irish out-half, having been recalled to the squad under head coach Scott Bemand.

"Ten years on from my first cap against England in 2016 to the 2025 Rugby World Cup, it’s been an unforgettable journey," Fowley wrote on social media.

"I’ve travelled the world, made lifelong friends, and every moment in the green jersey has been an honour.

"The highs were incredible, the lows made me stronger, and I’m grateful for the resilience they taught me.

"I couldn’t have done it without the support of my wife, parents, family, coaches/physios and teammates

"Now it’s time to retire from international rugby and find my next adventure - fingers crossed it involves more travelling & saunas."

Fowley earned the final of her 15 caps in 2025 Guinness Women's Six Nations against England, although she was also a member of the Irish squad that travelled to England for the Rugby World Cup in September.

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