Niamh Kavanagh (rugby union)

Kavanagh's rugby career began in 2009 with UL Bohemians R.F.C. while she was studying Law and Tax at the Limerick Institute of Technology.^[1] She scored the first try on her debut for Ireland at the 2011 Six Nations against Italy. Two years later she was part of the squad that won a historic Grand Slam title at the 2013 Six Nations Championship.^[1]

Kavanagh was initially named in Ireland's squad for the 2014 Rugby World Cup but was ruled out due to a hamstring injury she sustained in Ireland’s final warm-up match against Wales.^[2][3] She was replaced by Vikki McGinn.^[4][3]

Kavanagh returned to the international stage in a 48–7 loss to Canada in 2016.^[2][5] She later played against the Black Ferns and scored a late consolation try in her sides 38–8 loss.^[6] In 2021 she was named in Munster's squad for the Vodafone Women’s Interpros.^[7]