Women’s rugby is poised for a landmark year in 2025, with the Guinness Women’s Six Nations kicking off what promises to be a pivotal period for the sport. As the countdown to the Rugby World Cup in England begins, the Six Nations serves not just as a key indicator of form but also as a stage for fresh talent to emerge and established players to solidify their places in history.
For Scotland, the stakes have never been higher. Head coach Bryan Easson has announced a squad that mirrors the growing strength and depth of the women’s game ahead of the competition. This mix of seasoned leaders and dynamic newcomers goes to show that Scotland is no longer settling for mid-table finishes; rather, this team is eager to challenge the elite of the Six Nations.
Scotland’s rise in the women’s game has been years in the making, but it feels like 2025 could be a watershed moment. The squad named for this year’s tournament showcases the increased competitiveness within the player pool, with selections based firmly on current form. Easson’s choice to include nine uncapped players—five forwards and four backs—highlights the growing influence of the Celtic Challenge and the English Premiership Women’s Rugby on nurturing talent.
Notable selections include Molly Poolman and Adelle Ferrie, who have successfully transitioned from Scottish club rugby to the national squad, illustrating the strength of domestic development pathways. The return of Evie Wills, Leicester Tigers centre, after recovering from an ACL injury, adds valuable experience and composure to Scotland’s back line.
The 2025 Six Nations is more than just another tournament; it marks the onset of a year where women’s rugby is set to capture global attention. With record-breaking broadcast deals and increasing fan engagement, the sport is reaching new audiences. In 2024, Six Nations Rugby reported a remarkable 22% rise in matchday attendance, emphasizing the burgeoning global appetite for women’s rugby. Scotland is well-positioned to capitalize on this momentum.
A strong performance in the Six Nations could give them a fantastic springboard into the World Cup, where they will compete on the biggest stage. For players like Lana Skeldon and Emma Wassell, both returning from injury, the Six Nations offers the perfect platform to regain their form and aim for a starting position in the World Cup.
Greater visibility of women’s rugby is now translating into increased investment and professionalism. More players are aspiring to pursue rugby as a full-time career, with club contracts and sponsorship deals becoming more common. Scotland’s squad reflects this shift, as several players juggle professional contracts alongside their commitments to club and international duties.
The Rugby World Cup in England is another key opportunity to showcase the sport, but the Six Nations comes first. Success here is vital in building momentum for the World Cup while also reinforcing the progress made in expanding the women’s game at both grassroots and elite levels. Scotland possesses the squad, depth, and determination to make 2025 a defining year.
As the tournament unfolds, Scotland's fixtures include:
- Scotland vs Wales – Saturday 22nd March 2025 at 16:45
- France vs Scotland – Saturday 29th March 2025 at 13:00
- Scotland vs Italy – Sunday 13th April 2025 at 15:00
- England vs Scotland – Saturday 19th April 2025 at 16:45
- Scotland vs Ireland – Saturday 26th April 2025 at 14:30
The challenge now is to transform their potential into results, securing their place among the elite teams of the Six Nations.
