Scotland head coach Bryan Easson has named a matchday 23 brimming with experience and fresh opportunity as the national side prepares to take on Italy in Viadana on Friday evening.
The Summer Test marks a poignant return for lock Emma Wassell, who is set to make her first appearance in the Scottish jersey since undergoing major surgery following the discovery of a benign tumour in her chest last year. A stalwart of the
Scotland pack, Wassell is reinstated in the second row alongside Adelle Ferrie, who earns her first international start.
The fixture also comes amid news that Easson will step down as head coach after the upcoming Rugby World Cup. The long-serving coach, who has overseen a transformative period in Scottish women’s rugby, will conclude his 25-year tenure
with the governing body following the tournament.
On the field, there’s a blend of tested combinations and emerging talent. The pack retains a solid core, with captain Rachel Malcolm anchoring the back row alongside Rachel McLachlan and Evie Gallagher. Up front, Leah Bartlett, Lana Skeldon, and Elliann Clarke form a familiar front row.
In the half-backs, Helen Nelson resumes command at stand-off, partnering with Leia Brebner-Holden at scrum half. The midfield pairing of Lisa Thomson and Evie Wills sees Wills make her first start at outside centre, while a dynamic back three of Rhona Lloyd, Coreen Grant, and full-back Lucia Scott completes the starting line-up.
There’s further anticipation on the bench, where Edinburgh’s Hannah Ramsay could make her international debut. Molly Wright also returns to the squad for the first time since the 2024 Guinness Women’s Six Nations, offering experienced front-row cover alongside Elis Martin and Lisa Cockburn.
This match serves as a crucial building block ahead of the World Cup in August, not only providing a test against a traditionally combative Italian side but also signalling the beginning of the end of an era under Easson. With a strong blend of proven internationals and rising stars, Friday’s contest will be closely watched as Scotland fine-tune their depth and combinations on the road to England 2025.
Scotland Women to face Italy – Friday 25 July, Stadio Luigi Zaffanella, Viadana (6.30pm BST)
Live on BBC Alba, BBC iPlayer, and RugbyPass TV
