Head coach Phil de Barra has named Christy Haney as captain of his side for the upcoming Vodafone Women’s Interprovincial Series.

Twenty-seven-year-old prop Haney, originally born in Virginia, USA, plays her club rugby with Blackrock College RFC and has been a part of the squad for over five years.

During her time in America, where she represented the University of Virginia, Haney was capped twice by the USA Rugby Collegiate All-American team.

At the announcement of her captaincy, Haney said: “I’m completely humbled to be given the opportunity to captain this year’s unbelievable team of women! From my first day with Leinster five years ago, I have had the opportunity to grow as a player, to see Leinster women’s rugby grow as an organisation, and it has been an honour to be a part of it every step of the way.

“There are countless things that will make this year’s interpros unique, but my favourite is already the one-of-a-kind group of girls that have dedicated themselves to each other and to the jersey from day one. There is such an incredible energy and atmosphere among the team and from management and I know we’re all looking forward to that first big hit come game time!”

Along with Haney being named as captain, Michelle Claffey (Blackrock College RFC) and Nikki Caughey (Railway Union RFC) have been named as vice-captains for the upcoming campaign.

Offaly native Claffey, a key player in the back-to-back interprovincial wins in 2018 and 2019, has 12 Ireland caps to her name as well as 21 caps with Leinster while Caughey is also an experienced international, with 16 caps in the XVs game and 15 caps for the Ireland Sevens.

Head coach de Barra commented: “I’m delighted to announce Christy as our captain and Michelle and Nikki as vice-captains. Throughout the months of training that we’ve put in, they’ve led by example to the newer players. They all have a lot of experience at interprovincial level and beyond which will be hugely important to our young squad.

“The squad is in a good place and we’re looking forward to kicking off the campaign next weekend. The confirmation of the games being televised by TG4 and BBC NI has just increased the excitement within our camp.”

Saturday, August 28

Connacht v Leinster, The Sportsground, 2.30pm (TG4)
Ulster v Munster, Kingspan Stadium, 4.45pm (TG4, BBC iPlayer)

Saturday, September 4

Leinster v Ulster, Energia Park, 5pm (TG4, BBC iPlayer)
Munster v Connacht, Musgrave Park, 7.30pm (TG4)

Saturday, September 11

Connacht v Ulster, Energia Park, 5pm (TG4, BBC iPlayer)
Leinster v Munster, Energia Park, 7.30pm (TG4)