Hollie Cunningham's Scotland Debut: A New Era in Women's Six Nations Rugby

Hollie Cunningham is poised to make her Scotland debut in the Women's Six Nations opener against Wales this Saturday. The 25-year-old Bristol Bears second row has completed her switch of allegiance from England to Scotland, a move that has been eagerly anticipated by the Scottish rugby community.

Cunningham, who has represented England at Under-18 and Under-20 levels, qualifies for Scotland through her grandmother. Bryan Easson, Scotland's head coach, expressed his excitement about her inclusion: "We have had our eye on her for a little while. It is great to see somebody new coming in who drives standards."

Key Players to Watch

• Ellianne Clarke and Anne Young will also make their first Six Nations starts, adding depth to the Scottish squad.
• Adelle Ferrie is expected to make her debut from the bench, while Evie Wills is set for her first international appearance in three years after recovering from a cruciate ligament injury.

Strategic Insights

Easson has opted for a 6-2 split between forwards and backs on the bench, a strategy he believes will give Scotland an edge. "I think the 6-2 split for us is exciting to be able to do it - we have got the players to be able to do it now," he added.

The Opponent: Wales

Wales, under new head coach Sean Lynn, presents a fresh challenge. Easson acknowledged the unpredictability: "There is always a new coach bounce, but this week has been important for us to concentrate more on ourselves than it is the opposition."

Looking Ahead

This match is not just about the Six Nations; it’s also a precursor to the World Cup, where Scotland and Wales are drawn in the same pool. Easson, however, is focused on the present: "I think you have got to respect the Six Nations as the tournament that it is."

Scotland Team Lineup

Starting XV: Chloe Rollie, Rhona Lloyd, Emma Orr, Lisa Thomson, Francesca McGhie, Helen Nelson, Leia Brebner-Holden, Anne Young, Lana Skeldon, Elliann Clarke, Hollie Cunningham, Sarah Bonar, Rachel Malcolm (captain), Rachel McLachlan, Evie Gallagher.

Replacements: Elis Martin, Leah Bartlett, Christine Belisle, Adelle Ferrie, Alex Stewart, Jade Konkel, Caity Mattinson, Evie Wills.

This game promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams looking to set the tone for their Six Nations campaigns.