Scotland head coach Bryan Easson has named his squad for their crucial round two clash against France this Saturday. The team sees three changes, with Jade Konkel returning to the starting XV and two potential debutants named on the bench.
Konkel Returns to Strengthen the Forward Pack
Jade Konkel’s return at number 8 is the only alteration to Scotland’s starting lineup. Earning her 68th cap, she joins an elite group of Scotland Women’s top 10 most-capped players alongside Louise Dalgliesh and Emma Wassel.
Despite Konkel’s inclusion, the rest of the forward pack remains intact. Anne Young, Lana Skeldon, and Elliann Clarke retain their spots in the front row. Hollie Cunningham, who made her debut last weekend, continues alongside Sarah Bonar in the second row. Captain Rachel Malcolm and Rachel McLachlan complete the back row.
Unchanged Backline Aims to Build on Strong Performance
After an impressive outing against Wales, Scotland’s backline remains untouched. Leia Brebner-Holden and vice-captain Helen Nelson continue their half-back partnership, providing stability in the playmaking roles.
In midfield, Lisa Thomson and Emma Orr maintain their positions, while the back three of Francesca McGhie, Rhona Lloyd, and Chloe Rollie remains unchanged. Their cohesion and attacking threat will be key against a formidable French side.
Fresh Faces on the Bench
The replacements feature exciting new talent. Molly Poolman and Becky Boyd have been included among the forward options, both in line for their first international caps.
Other key names on the bench:
- Elis Martin and Leah Bartlett provide front-row cover.
- Adelle Ferrie, who made her debut against Wales, retains her spot.
- Alex Stewart is named as another forward option.
- Caity Mattinson and Evie Wills complete the list as backs replacements.
One notable absence is Evie Gallagher, who is serving a one-match suspension following a red card against Wales. Her disciplinary hearing details are available on the Six Nations Rugby website.
Scotland Squad to Face France
Starting XV:
- Chloe Rollie – Trailfinders Women (70)
- Rhona Lloyd – Les Lionnes du Stade Bordelais (52)
- Emma Orr – Bristol Bears (24)
- Lisa Thomson – Trailfinders Women (64)
- Francesca McGhie – Leicester Tigers (17)
- Helen Nelson (vice-captain) – Loughborough Lightning (65)
- Leia Brebner-Holden – Loughborough Lightning (5)
- Anne Young – Loughborough Lightning (16)
- Lana Skeldon – Bristol Bears (75)
- Elliann Clarke – Bristol Bears (16)
- Hollie Cunningham – Bristol Bears (1)
- Sarah Bonar – Harlequins (43)
- Rachel Malcolm (captain) – Unattached (53)
- Rachel McLachlan – Montpellier (47)
- Jade Konkel – Harlequins (67)
Replacements:
- Elis Martin – Loughborough Lightning (16)
- Leah Bartlett – Leicester Tigers (39)
- Molly Poolman – Edinburgh Rugby/Watsonian FC (uncapped)
- Adelle Ferrie – Edinburgh Rugby/Corstorphine Cougars (1)
- Becky Boyd – Loughborough Lightning (uncapped)
- Alex Stewart – Edinburgh Rugby/Corstorphine Cougars (9)
- Caity Mattinson – Trailfinders Women (28)
- Evie Wills – Leicester Tigers (3)
Scotland will be aiming to build on their performance against Wales and challenge a strong French side in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
