(Reuters) -Ireland eased to a 42-14 victory over Japan to get their Women’s Rugby World Cup campaign off to an excellent start on Sunday, while South Africa claimed a 66-6 win against debutants Brazil thanks to a hat-trick of tries by No.

New Zealand began its defense of the Women’s Rugby World Cup by scratching a 54-8 win over Spain in York on Sunday. The Black Ferns were comfortable eight-try winners — with only 13 players for the last quarter — but at the possible cost of flanker Kaipo Olsen-Baker, who suffered a right leg injury and was carried off the field in tears.

Rugby clubs are hoping the Women's World Cup will inspire new players to "dip their toe in" and try the sport. Friday's opening match saw England take on the USA at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland and rugby teams across north-east England hope those inspired by the game will join their clubs.