SUNDERLAND, England — Ilona Maher’s mission at the Women’s Rugby World Cup is about more than just winning games. Heading into the United States’ tournament opener on Friday, the world’s most followed rugby player on social media wants to get more eyeballs on the sport as it ramps up attempts to crack the market in America.

Thousands of people are set to descend on Sunderland to enjoy a parade and live music in celebration of the Women's Rugby World Cup. England are set to take on the USA in the opening match of the tournament at the Stadium of Light on later and the city centre is hosting events to promote the tournament.

Dorothy Wall has identified Brittany Hogan as Ireland's player to watch out for ahead of the Women's Rugby World Cup that starts this weekend.