Originally from Tipperary, Kerrie-Ann who graduated from University of Bedfordshire with a BEd in Secondary Physical Education is in the 26-strong side, in France for the 17-day tournament.

On a day-to-day basis the 29-year-old Prop is a PE teacher, but also plays for Saracens Women 1XV, an amateur side.

Kerrie Ann Craddock with team mate Hannah Casey. Source: Kerrie Ann Craddock/Twitter 

Over the group stages Kerrie-Ann, who has one international cap, will be looking to break in to the side as the Irish face USA (today), New Zealand on Tuesday 5 August, and Kazakhstan Saturday 9 August.

Fellow Saracens star Maggie Alphonsi MBE will be playing in her third World Cup and will be hoping to finally win the elusive trophy, having reached the final on the two previous occasions.

Maggie, who graduated in 2006 from former De Montfort University site in Bedford, with a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science, has since accomplished a host achievements including the Sunday Times Sportswoman of the Year prize in 2010, as well as being on the 2012 Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

The 30 year old flanker is set to be in the team facing Samoa today, Spain on Tuesday, and Canada next Saturday.