Scotland's Jade Konkel Steps Up Against France in Women's Six Nations Clash

Scotland's Jade Konkel replaces suspended Evie Gallagher as they face France in a thrilling Women's Six Nations encounter.

Scotland head coach Bryan Easson has made one crucial change to his starting XV for their Women's Six Nations match against France, with experienced forward Jade Konkel replacing the suspended Evie Gallagher at number eight.

Key Team Changes

  • Jade Konkel starts at number eight following Gallagher's one-match ban
  • Potential debuts for Molly Poolman (prop) and Becky Boyd (second row) off the bench
  • Leah Bartlett remains among replacements after scoring against Wales

The Gallagher Situation

Gallagher received a red card in Scotland's opening 20-18 victory over Wales for an illegal clear-out on replacement hooker Kelsey Jones. The disciplinary committee imposed a one-game suspension, opening the door for Konkel's return to the starting lineup.

Easson praised both players: "Jade brings tremendous experience - she debuted for Scotland in 2013 aged just 19. While losing Evie is disappointing after her dominant breakdown performance, Jade ensures smooth transition in our back row balance."

The French Challenge

France enter the match following their 27-15 opening win against Ireland in Belfast. The Stade Marcel-Deflandre in La Rochelle is sold out, with Easson warning his squad about the intimidating atmosphere: "The whole town will come out - they'll be there for warm-up. We've prepared our newer players for this environment."

Recent History

Scotland nearly caused an upset in last year's meeting, leading 5-3 at halftime before falling 15-5 in Edinburgh. Easson draws confidence ahead: "Our performance against France last year was excellent. We've won 13 of our last 17 games and must view this as another opportunity."

Match Details

  • Date: Saturday, 29 March
  • Kick-off: 13:00 GMT
  • Venue: Stade Marcel-Deflandre, La Rochelle
  • Coverage: Live on BBC iPlayer & BBC Sport website

Scotland Starting XV: Rollie, Lloyd, Orr, Thomson, McGhie, Nelson, Brebner-Holden; Young, Skeldon, Clarke, Cunningham, Bonar, Malcolm (capt), McLachlan, Konkel.

Replacements: Martin, Bartlett, Poolman, Ferrie, Boyd, Stewart, Mattinson, Wills.

What to Read Next

Owen Farrell's Injury Shocks in Racing 92's Defeat to Lyon; Bath Final Ahead
Rugby

Owen Farrell's Injury Shocks in Racing 92's Defeat to Lyon; Bath Final Ahead

Owen Farrell injured in Racing 92's loss to Lyon, setting up Lyon vs Bath final.

Argentina's Rodrigo Martinez Secures Extended Deal with Dragons
Rugby

Argentina's Rodrigo Martinez Secures Extended Deal with Dragons

Argentina prop Rodrigo Martinez signs new deal with Dragons until 2025-26.

The Curry Twins Secure Long-Term Deals with Sale Sharks
Rugby

The Curry Twins Secure Long-Term Deals with Sale Sharks

Ben and Tom Curry, 26-year-old England flankers, sign new long-term deals with Sale Sharks.

Wales' Mathias Secures New Scarlets Deal: A Boost for the Club
Rugby

Wales' Mathias Secures New Scarlets Deal: A Boost for the Club

Wales prop Kemsley Mathias signs new Scarlets contract. His club future is set.

USA Rugby Captain Zackary's Extended Commitment to Ealing
Rugby

USA Rugby Captain Zackary's Extended Commitment to Ealing

US captain Kate Zackary extends her stay with Ealing, impressing with her leadership and performance.

Ireland's Quest to Triumph in 'Little Moments' Against England
Rugby

Ireland's Quest to Triumph in 'Little Moments' Against England

Ireland's rugby team aims to win crucial moments against England in the Women's Six Nations.

Bath's Semifinal Journey Against Edinburgh in the European Challenge Cup
Rugby

Bath's Semifinal Journey Against Edinburgh in the European Challenge Cup

Bath prepare for a crucial semifinal against Edinburgh in the European Challenge Cup.

Wales Readies Strong Pack for Crucial 6N Clash with Italy
Rugby

Wales Readies Strong Pack for Crucial 6N Clash with Italy

Wales makes changes to pack for the final Six Nations match against Italy.

Wales' Rugby Hope in Coach Lynn: A Path to Success
Rugby

Wales' Rugby Hope in Coach Lynn: A Path to Success

Wales' players back coach Lynn despite poor start. Hopes for improvement ahead of World Cup.

Finn Russell's Magic in Rugby: A Battle for the European Challenge Cup
Rugby

Finn Russell's Magic in Rugby: A Battle for the European Challenge Cup

Sean Everitt on the challenges of facing Finn Russell in the European Rugby Challenge Cup.

Exeter Chiefs' Coaching Crisis After Record Loss
Rugby

Exeter Chiefs' Coaching Crisis After Record Loss

Exeter suspends coaches Hunter and Hepher after a disastrous Premiership loss.

Georgia Evans Aims for Ireland Payback in Wales' Rugby Showdown
Rugby

Georgia Evans Aims for Ireland Payback in Wales' Rugby Showdown

Georgia Evans is ready to lead Wales for a payback against Ireland in the Six Nations.

Irish Women's Rugby Team Shines with Redemption in Italy Victory
Rugby

Irish Women's Rugby Team Shines with Redemption in Italy Victory

Ireland's women's rugby team achieved redemption in Italy. Key players stood out.

Wales' Disappointing Six Nations Campaign and Path to Recovery
Rugby

Wales' Disappointing Six Nations Campaign and Path to Recovery

Wales' Six Nations campaign was eventful with losses. Coach Lynn aims to turn things around for World Cup.

Scotland's Challenge Against Dominant England in Women's Six Nations
Rugby

Scotland's Challenge Against Dominant England in Women's Six Nations

Scotland makes changes for the big game against England in the Women's Six Nations.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.