When asked if handing debuts to Perry and McGillivray undermines some of Ireland’s longer-serving players, Bemand said: “If done incorrectly.
“But with Christy [Haney] picking up the hamstring niggle we needed to bring in and supplement the front row.
“So actually, everything has been done well, in my opinion. In terms of the playing group, she’s known to a good few of our group. So actually transitioning in, in terms of the block that we’ve gone through, it’s been a pre-season block.
“So people coming in and getting touch points within pre-season blocks is actually a really healthy point to enter. And it gives people time to acclimatise.
“It gives people time to understand what the culture is of the group. It’s not just an on-pitch piece. There’s an off-piece culture where people like to be themselves, and add to our wave. She’s been able to do that.”
Bemand added that Exeter’s McGillivray, who grew up in Hong Kong and has an Irish father, has added an “enormous amount” since coming into the squad.
“She’s played with a good few of the players, other players have got to know her, and it’s brought just a little bit of energy when you sort of get through your pre-season bits,” he said.
