The Barbarians have launched their first-ever women's side which will take to the field on Nov. 10 against Munster.
The famous invitational side is 127 years old and has taken the historic step to introduce a women's side to run alongside the men. Their debut will be at Thomond Park with a team featuring players from seven different nations.
The players who have already accepted invitations are Susie Brown (Scotland), Fiona Coghlan (Ireland), Claire Cripps and Megan Goddard (England), Elen Evans (Wales), Emma Jenson (New Zealand), Christelle Le Duff (France) and Kelly Russell (Canada) and the team will be coached by England World Cup-winner Giselle Mather.
"We're delighted to open a new chapter in the Barbarian FC's history with the creation of our women's team this season," said Barbarians chairman John Spencer. "Its formation is something we've been working towards for a number of years and it is a reflection of the excellence of the global women's game which was showcased so brilliantly at this year's Women's Rugby World Cup in Ireland.
"Our aim is to welcome more talented players into this iconic club to forge new friendships and play with the style and passion for which the Barbarians are famous. We are working with clubs and unions around the world to make sure it benefits the players and the game."
The announcement comes with the support of World Rugby and the Women's Sport Trust and Wasps director of rugby Mather says coaching the famous side is a "massive honour".
"I can't wait to get these players from all different nationalities together with everything they bring from their different environments," Mather said. "It's going to be a massive opportunity for all these athletes.
"The state of the women's game is phenomenal at the moment following events like the World Cup and the launch of the Tyrrell's Premier 15s in England. With the Barbarians coming in on top of that it's taking the game to a different level."