The former Ireland co-captain made her first start of the Six Nations campaign in last weekend’s victory, having come off the bench in the previous three matches and missed the opener away to England through injury.

Monaghan said the entire landmark day was one which would live long in her memory.

“As we came into the stadium it was like a sea of green. I actually wish we could have got off the bus and walked to the stadium from there. The atmosphere was insane.

“The weather didn’t deter people. They were determined to stay out there and give us the best welcome we’ve ever had. I wish I could relive that moment again. You could see in all the parents’ faces, how proud they were.

“To do it for for them, for everyone who has put on the jersey, for everyone in the crowd, was amazing.”

Ireland scored 47 points without reply in an emphatic first-half performance and made the most of the post-match celebrations after making it three wins from three at home in this year’s Six Nations.

“Doing the lap after the game was so special and something that will stand out in my memory for the rest of my life.

“It’s hard to put into words, proud, just proud Irish women, to see all the players get recognised for their cap numbers. They had an event on afterwards and they revealed all of our cap numbers, so I’m number 248.

“From where it’s come, even in the last couple of years. There are so many players deserved to be on that pitch as well.

“I think that’s what I was feeling on the bus as well. I wish we could all go out and do it there together.

“You’re playing for everyone. We’re just the lucky ones who got to put on the jersey that day.”