Scotland head into their final Women’s Six Nations fixture against Ireland this weekend with the team healthy, growing confidence, and a squad hungry to finish on a high.
After facing the world’s best in England last week, the Scottish side showed signs of progress despite the 59-7 loss. They not only crossed the try line, something they failed to do against England last year but also created multiple chances and held the Red Roses to a 7–7 second half for 20 minutes.
Banahan praised the resilience and collective growth shown by the squad and sees this weekend’s clash with Ireland as a major opportunity to build momentum heading into the World Cup.
“It’s a big game,” he said. “Last year it was 15 -12 and that match could have gone either way. Ireland went on to beat New Zealand, gained loads of confidence, and we need to believe we can do the same.”
Scotland captain Rachel Malcolm has completed her return-to-play protocols after a head knock and is available for selection. Banahan confirmed that “she’s done everything with the doctors, skills with me, returned to contact – she’s good to go.” Having Malcolm back in the group is more than just a leadership boost on the field. “It’s the off-pitch stuff too,” Banahan added. “She speaks at the right times and really brings the group together. It’s great to have her back.”
Also returning to the fold are Alex Stewart and Evie Wills, both of whom are back in training and in contention.
With a fully fit squad, Scotland’s coaching team face a selection challenge – particularly in choosing their bench balance.
“It’s unusual at this point in a tournament to have 30 players fit and training,” Banahan said. “It’s a good headache to have, but it does make selection conversations harder.”
While the England match was a benchmark, Ireland presents a real opportunity and Banahan believes the squad are ready to take it.
“If we click, if we capitalise on our chances, and if we believe, then we can win this,” he said. “This is our chance to build something going into the World Cup.”
