Monaghan joins the likes of Beibhinn Parsons, Aoibheann Reilly, Natasja Behan, Katie Corrigan and Sadhbh McGrath in the treatment room.

Bemand is boosted, however, by the return of Olympians Stacey Flood, Eve Higgins, Emily Lane and Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe, all of whom featured in Ireland’s sevens campaign at the recent Paris Games.

Forward Erin King, another Sevens international, is one of 10 uncapped players in Bemand’s 35-strong panel.

Ireland face Australia at Kingspan Stadium in Belfast on Saturday and Bemand conceded that there are “some bumps and bruises” after the finals of the Women’s Interprovincial Championship at the weekend, but no further injuries to report.

“It was nice to see some really competitive rugby [in the interpros], the levels of physicality last weekend probably stepped up a bit which kept us on our toes when we’re getting ready for a competition.

“We’ll see where we’re at this week, but hopefully nothing too serious for anyone.”