Centre Eve Higgins says Ireland have "huge belief" heading into their Women's Six Nations opener with France in Belfast (13:00 GMT).

Ireland have had a strong year of progress under head coach Scott Bemand and a third place finish in last year's Six Nations secured qualification for the World Cup.

That was then backed up by a win over Australia in Belfast and a shock, historic victory in WXV1 against New Zealand in Vancouver.

"That has grown a huge belief in this squad," Higgins said on Ireland's progress in 2024.

"Every single one of us is looking forward to going into the Six Nations and building on last year."

Higgins said Ireland trained against France, who are led by star scum-half scrum-half Pauline Bourdon Sansus, in the lead-up to their win over New Zealand.

France finished second in last year's Six Nations after losing to England in a Grand Slam shootout in the final round.

"In the week heading into the New Zealand game we had our heaviest session against them," added the 25-year-old.

"We have not only had playing against them in the Six Nations, but also to train against them and focus on key areas.

"It put us in a great place heading into the New Zealand game.

"They have some star players and a power game, but the team has gained a lot of confidence from training against them."

After their opener with France, Ireland travel to Italy, host England and round out the tournament away to Wales and Scotland.