'Generational talent' and 'world-class scrummager' inducted into Hall of Fame

Former Ireland utility back Lynne Cantwell and England prop Rochelle ‘Rocky’ Clark will be inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame during a special ceremony on the eve of the 2025 Rugby World Cup final.

Ten years after her retirement, Cantwell is still Ireland’s most-capped player, while Clark shared the distinction with England until being overtaken by former teammate, Sarah Hunter.

Both will be honoured in London on 26 September during a special ceremony at World Rugby’s Women’s Summit.

Cantwell, who played international sevens and 15s, became a rugby administrator once she hung up her boots and is currently the IRFU’s Head of Women’s Strategy.

2014 World Cup winner Clark, a fearless scrummager, moved into coaching and is also a respected pundit on the game.

World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson said: “On behalf of the global rugby family, I would like to congratulate Lynne Cantwell and Rocky Clark on their richly deserved inductions into the World Rugby Hall of Fame.

“Lynne was a generational talent and an inspirational part of an Ireland team that secured a first-ever Women’s Six Nations title and beat New Zealand on the way to a first Women’s Rugby World Cup semi-final. Rocky’s reputation as a world-class scrummager was deserved, but her value went beyond that, and she was an integral part of a hugely successful era for England.

“The World Rugby Hall of Fame exists to honour the greats of our game, those whose legacy transcends results and statistics. Lynne and Rocky have earned their place and we thank them for the extraordinary contribution they have made to the game around the world. I look forward to inducting them during what is already a record-breaking Women’s Rugby World Cup and a generational moment for our game.”