This season marks Daley’s first interprovincial series after an ACL tear which saw her sidelined for a year, and she returns with confidence she can lead her side to success after last year’s disheartening fourth place finish. With two warm-up victories already under their belt, including triumph over reigning champions Leinster, the 23-year-old strives to capitalise off this momentum and lead Ulster through what promises to be an exciting series.
“To captain this team is a huge privilege,” says Daley. “I’m very honoured to be chosen; I’ve been playing here for the past four years.”
However, India understands her new captaincy doesn’t come without its challenges. She is focused on staying composed and keeping her team grounded:
“Games might not go our way, we don’t know what way they’re going to go at all,” notes Daley. “I think we have to keep the team calm and just really have our heads screwed on and get ready to play at our best.”
With eleven exciting new call-ups added to the squad, there’s a real sense of optimism as Daley reflects on the team’s potential:
“There’s such a good blend of experience and youth, and I can’t wait to see how this team progresses this year. I think our wins over Connacht and Leinster have really boosted our morale, especially after last season where we didn’t win any of our games.”
“We’re really going to hit the ground running now,” enthuses Daley.
An ACL tear sidelined Daley for a full year, presenting her with one of the biggest challenges of her career. She has been working hard to make her return to the squad and embarks on the upcoming series with great optimism.
“It was mentally and physically tough,” remarks Delay, “but put in the hard work and you will get there.”
She also nods to her rehab team, who were crucial in guiding her to a full recovery:
“They have been unbelievable to get me back, and the physios pushed me so hard and really helped me through it. I’m so grateful for them.”
Off the pitch, Daley transitions her experience from the game into her role as an ambassador for the Ulster Rugby Foundation. She values their commitment towards growing the women’s and youth ladies’ game, as she “wouldn’t be where \[she is\] today without playing youth rugby”.
“The foundation is very close to my heart,” explains Daley. “All the inclusion work they’re doing is so important, as rugby can help change so many people’s lives for the better.”
She highlights a drastic spike in the popularity of the women’s game, noting both the buzz surrounding this year’s World Cup and the ongoing work of the Foundation as key contributors.
“Being on this Ulster pitch the last few years, the number of supporters that we have seen is unbelievable. The amount of wee girls coming up to us and just chatting is great,” she beams.
“The uptake of newcomers in the women’s game is crazy and I hope it only gets better!”
Daley is also passionate about making rugby accessible to all, describing it as one of the only sports “which suits everyone of all shapes and sizes.” She praises the Foundation for its efforts in creating more inclusive opportunities across the game:
“All the disability and inclusion work done by the Ulster Rugby Foundation is pivotal, as rugby can help change so many people’s lives for the better.”
“It’s essential for everyone to be able to access the sport because it’s so good for every aspect of your life.”
Facing her first Interprovincial Series as captain after a tough year on the sidelines, Daley aims not only for victory but to inspire those around her. Her resilience during recovery paired with her commitment both on and off the pitch paint her as a true role model, perfectly apt to keep the team grounded and lead Ulster as they gear up for a thrilling series.
Written by Izzy Bland