'Her contribution to Irish rugby can't be understated' - teammates lead the tributes to retiring Naoupu

Ireland internationals Enya Breen and Katie O'Dwyer have both paid tribute to their former teammate Sene Naoupu, who announced her retirement from Test rugby yesterday.

The 38-year-old confirmed the end of her international career, having won 48 caps for Ireland since her debut in 2015, while also featuring for Ireland Sevens.

It had been thought the New Zealand native's international career was over when she was left out of the Ireland squad for the opening rounds of this year's Six Nations, before returning for the final two games against England and Scotland.

Breen, who started alongside Naoupu in the centre for both games, says her former teammate has made an enormous contribution to the game in Ireland.

"Sene was massive to my development," she said from Ireland's team base in Hamamatsu, ahead of their opening Test against Japan on Saturday (11am Irish time).

"I came in as a young center and she mentored me in that capacity. I probably wouldn't be where I am today without some of her guidance and some of her tips that I've gotten from her.

"I wish her all the best in the future. She's been great, and her contribution to Irish rugby can't be understated."

Naoupu moved to Ireland from New Zealand in 2009 with her husband and former Connacht back row George, before qualifying for Ireland through residency and making her debut in the 2015 Six Nations.

The centre was named Rugby Writers of Ireland Women's Player of the Year in 2016,and scored six tries in her 48 caps.

"She's been a huge part in all of our journeys, whether at club level, interprovincial or Ireland," her Leinster teammate Katie O'Dwyer added.

"She will always be the first person to put the arm around you and give you a dig out when you need it. I know the off-pitch