Hannah Ramsay is set to make her first start for Scotland in a pivotal Rugby World Cup warm-up match against Ireland this Saturday. This match, held at Virgin Media Park, Cork, is a significant test for Scotland as they fine-tune their squad before the global tournament begins later this month.

Strategic Team Changes

Following her debut in the recent match against Italy, Ramsay, a fly-half from Edinburgh Rugby, will partner with Caity Mattinson, the scrum-half, forming a new half-back duo. This change is part of several strategic adjustments by the coaching staff to optimize team performance.

Key Player Shifts

• Chloe Rollie steps in at full-back, bringing her extensive experience to the backline.
• Lucia Scott transitions from full-back to wing, adding versatility to the team's attack.

Forward Pack Adjustments

In the forwards, Anne Young and Alex Stewart are selected as the loosehead prop and openside flanker, respectively. Rachel McLachlan shifts to blindside, while captain Rachel Malcolm moves into the second row, reinforcing the team's defensive structure.

Bench Strength

On the bench, Beth Blacklock is anticipated to earn her first Test cap since the 2023 Six Nations, providing depth in the center position.

Upcoming Challenges

This match is Scotland's final Test before the Rugby World Cup kicks off, with their first Pool B game against Wales in Salford on 23 August. The team's preparation and cohesion will be crucial as they aim to make a strong impression in the tournament.

Scotland Line-Up

Starting XV:

• Chloe Rollie (Toulon Provence Mediterranee)
• Rhona Lloyd (Sale Sharks)
• Emma Orr (Bristol Bears)
• Lisa Thomson (Trailfinders Women)
• Lucia Scott (Loughborough Lightning)
• Hannah Ramsay (Edinburgh Rugby/University of Edinburgh)
• Caity Mattinson (Trailfinders Women)
• Anne Young (Loughborough Lightning)
• Lana Skeldon (Bristol Bears)
• Elliann Clarke (Bristol Bears)
• Emma Wassell (Trailfinders Women)
• Rachel Malcolm, capt (Trailfinders Women)
• Rachel McLachlan (Montpellier)
• Alex Stewart (Edinburgh Rugby/Corstorphine Cougars)
• Evie Gallagher (Bristol Bears)

Replacements:

• Elis Martin (Loughborough Lightning)
• Leah Bartlett (Sale Sharks)
• Molly Poolman (Edinburgh Rugby/Watsonian)
• Adelle Ferrie (Edinburgh Rugby/Corstorphine Cougars)
• Eva Donaldson (Sale Sharks)
• Leia Brebner-Holden (Loughborough Lightning)
• Beth Blacklock (Saracens)
• Coreen Grant (Saracens)

Related Topics

• Scottish Rugby
• Rugby Union

Related Internet Links

• Scottish Rugby Union