Scotland women’s vice-captain Helen Nelson emphasized the significance of their upcoming Six Nations clash with Wales on Saturday, March 22, 2025. Nelson remarked that this match is an opportunity for Scotland to “put a marker down” as they prepare for a vital year ahead, particularly with the Rugby World Cup looming.
Last year, the Scots secured a narrow victory over Wales, edging them out 20-18 during a gripping contest in Cardiff. Given the fierce rivalry between the two teams, currently ranked seventh and tenth in the world, their upcoming encounter at Hive Stadium promises to be a thrilling spectacle.
As the excitement builds, it’s worth noting that this match doubles as the first meeting between Scotland and Wales in the lead-up to their Rugby World Cup 2025 pool opener in Manchester on August 23. Nelson, who plays fly-half for Loughborough Lightning, looks forward to the match, saying, “Wales first up in the Six Nations is the one that we are looking forward to and the only game that we are thinking about just now.”
Moreover, the 30-year-old added that the two teams have had several close encounters recently, heightening the stakes for the upcoming game. “It was so close against them last year down in Cardiff and we have had a number of close games against them in recent times,” she pointed out, adding that the competition will be fierce, and both teams will approach the game with a great deal of passion.
In retrospect, the playoff between these two teams will not only be critical for both sides but will also serve as an opportunity for Scotland to demonstrate the growth and depth of their squad. “We have so much more belief and depth in the squad than we did a couple of years ago,” Nelson explained, underscoring the hard work that players and coaches have dedicated to reaching new heights.
This game marks the first Test match for Wales' newly appointed head coach Sean Lynn, who just started in his role on March 17, 2025. Lynn, who has previously enjoyed success at Gloucester-Hartpury, is aware of the challenges that lie ahead. He acknowledged Scotland as a “very well drilled team” that excels on the field, particularly at the breakdown. Reflecting on their last encounter, he observed, “I was actually at Cardiff Arms Park last year and saw just how closely matched the sides are.”
As he prepares for this significant encounter, Lynn respects the abilities of the Scottish players and has been both a coach for and against some of them in the Premier 15s. He commented, “They are good at the breakdown and they are growing and growing as a group of players.” With a clear understanding of the heightened competitive nature of this fixture, he stated, “Wales against Scotland has always been a competitive fixture in the women’s game over the years.”
Leading into this critical match, Scotland's head coach Bryan Easson faces difficult choices regarding player selection. He acknowledged the team’s increased depth saying, “There are going to be some tough conversations with some very good players in the next few days as people miss out on the first matchday 23 of the year.” His comments reflect the significant growth in the player pool, now exceeding 40 competitive players compared to just over 20 just a couple of years ago.
Easson highlighted that this internal competition is vital for pushing the standards and goals of the team higher. “It’s really positive to see the numbers we can now call on—it gives us as coaches lots to think about,” he stated, reinforcing the optimism surrounding the team: “Internal competition pushes standards up and we want to get to the next level as a team now.”
The March 22 match is expected to showcase the talent and determination of both teams as they strive for victory. With the stakes so high for each side, rugby fans can certainly expect an enthralling encounter as Scotland and Wales unleash their ambitions on the pitch. Both teams are determined to start their Six Nations journeys on a positive note leading into the World Cup.
As the kickoff approaches, anticipation surrounding the clash continues to amplify. Nelson's words resonate: this opening encounter is not merely another game; it represents a vital moment for Scotland and Wales, setting the tone for their respective futures. Every minute on the pitch will matter, making the showdown one of the most anticipated events in this year’s Six Nations.
