The tournament aims to break the attendance record for a women’s Rugby World Cup tournament, a target that will be music to the ears of players, coaches and rugby fans the world over.
“The tournament promises to take women’s rugby to another level and our pool is very exciting for us as coaches and players,” said Abrahams.
“We don’t know who our first opponents will be as yet but we know that whoever it is will be tough and challenging. We will do our homework and cover all bases to be as competitive as possible in all our matches.
“Playing New Zealand, the current champions and one of the most successful teams in the history of the women’s game in their own backyard will be a pretty special moment for all our players. Many of them haven’t played New Zealand before and to play them in front of a huge crowd in New Zealand may never happen again. International rugby doesn’t come much better than that.
“Australia are another exciting Pool opponent and to play New Zealand and Australia back-to-back in the space of a week is awesome. They have a slightly different ways of playing the game so we will prepare accordingly. If the knock-on effects of the pandemic has shown us one thing, it is that we must adapt constantly and we will continue to deal with all challenges as they come.”
Abrahams is buoyed at the thought of playing Rugby World Cup games in front of crowds.
“We all want to play in front of supporters,” he added. “Having a big crowd ignites another level of energy in players and raises performance levels. Regardless of who they’re shouting for, having spectators will help us to raise our game. The noise and ability to sing our national anthem in front of people will be huge.”
Abrahams, who was appointed as Wales Women head coach in November, is looking forward to the next stage of his journey as Wales Women coach, leading the side into the rescheduled Six Nations.
“We are looking forward to playing Six Nations fixtures. That will give us another chance to see our players in action and give them every chance to put their hands up for selection ahead of Rugby World Cup.”
