Claffey and Naoupu are no strangers to each other, having formed a successful partnership with Leinster in the recent Interprovincial Championship which they won. Their roles are reversed at provincial level where Naoupu operates at inside centre with Claffey on her outside.

The number on the jersey is the least of the Offaly native’s concerns when she goes into battle, though, given the stock she places in representing her country. She explained: “Myself and Sene have played together for probably about three years between Leinster, Ireland and also we played touch (rugby) together in the summer.

“We play well off each other. My voice only came back (Wednesday) morning! We were chatting the whole time. I love to play in an Irish jersey, and the number on the back doesn’t dictate how much I love to play. If it’s 12 fine. If I’ve to slot in at 2, I’ll slot in at 2!

“The chance to wear the number 12 jersey is incredible. You look at the people who’ve worn it before. I never thought I’d get an opportunity to start for Ireland, never mind at 12. To continue to play with Sene, and she’s outside me, it’s fab.”

Claffey was part of the Ireland squad when they faced England at the Ricoh Arena in March’s Six Nations fixture. It was part of a double header with the countries’ Under-20 men. On the night both games went the way of the hosts in comprehensive fashion.

The Ireland Women return to Twickenham Stadium this evening for the first time since February 2016 when they narrowly lost a Six Nations match 13-9. Tonight’s Test is preceded by the senior men’s international between England and Australia, and Claffey, who is making her first appearance at England Rugby HQ, hopes a sizeable crowd will be in attendance for the 5.40pm kick-off.

“It’s going to be amazing. I’ve never played at Twickehnam. To play against England there this weekend is going to be amazing. Hopefully there’ll be a big crowd sticking around from the men’s game. Obviously we have our own supporters going over as well, so it’s going to be another big occasion. My mam and dad are coming over.”

Whereas Claffey was one of the new kids on the block during the Six Nations, making her debut in February’s home win over Italy, she is now helping to guide Ireland’s new caps through their early steps onto the international stage.