Scotland's Women Rugby Team Poised for Six Nations Kickoff
Hollie Cunningham, a noteworthy figure in women's rugby, is set to make her anticipated debut for Scotland in the Women’s Six Nations encounter against Wales this Saturday, March 22, 2025, at The Hive Stadium in Edinburgh.
At the age of 25, Cunningham has made a remarkable transition from representing England at the Under-18 and Under-20 levels to donning the Scotland jersey, qualifying through her grandmother. Bryan Easson, Scotland’s head coach, expressed excitement about Cunningham’s addition to the team, highlighting her experienced background and eagerness to contribute to the squad.
“We have had our eye on her for a little while,” Easson noted. “It is great to see somebody new coming in who drives standards. She is experienced; she has been involved with England at under-20, and she was part of their Six Nations squad last year as well.” Easson went on to state that Cunningham is “desperate” and “really excited to be involved” with the team.
Joining Cunningham in the starting lineup are fellow teammates Ellianne Clarke and Anne Young, both set to make their first Six Nations starts this weekend as well. Clarke, also from Bristol Bears, partners with Young, who plays for Loughborough Lightning.
Moreover, Edinburgh Rugby/Corstorphine Cougars’ Adelle Ferrie is expected to make her debut after being named among the replacements, while Leicester Tigers fly-half Evie Wills is in line for her first international appearance in three years after recovering from a cruciate ligament injury, also listed on the bench.
As excitement builds for the game, Easson addressed the match's significance, especially considering both teams will be in the same pool for this summer's World Cup. The clash against Wales represents preparation as they try to build momentum heading into the tournament. “There is always a new coach bounce; there is always the excitement of a new coach coming in, but I will be honest, there is a big difference between club rugby and international rugby,” Easson stressed.
With Sean Lynn stepping in as the new head coach for Wales after his tenure at Gloucester-Hartpury, the match takes on additional intrigue. Easson acknowledged that although Wales may have a different lineup and tactical approach, his focus remains primarily on his team. He stated, “I think you have got to respect the Six Nations as the tournament that it is. It is the best tournament in the world annually, and you have to respect Wales in this game.”
In formulating the squad for Saturday’s match, Easson has adopted a distinctive strategy, opting for a split of six forwards and just two backs on the bench against Wales. “I think the 6-2 split for us is exciting to be able to do it; we have got the players to be able to do it now,” he added, showing confidence in his team’s depth and versatility.
Looking ahead, fans can expect a competitive clash as Scotland faces off against Wales, kicking off at 16:45 GMT. The team features a strong lineup, including Chloe Rollie, Rhona Lloyd, Emma Orr, Lisa Thomson, Francesca McGhie, Helen Nelson, Leia Brebner-Holden, Lana Skeldon, Hollie Cunningham, Sarah Bonar, Rachel Malcolm as captain, Rachel McLachlan, and Evie Gallagher.
As the match commands attention, rugby enthusiasts will eagerly tune in on BBC One Wales, BBC Two Scotland, BBC iPlayer, as well as listen on BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru. The anticipation for Scotland’s performance this Saturday mirrors broader expectations as the team gears up for a promising tournament ahead.
