Women’s Rugby World Cup Pool B Preview: Scotland Face Tough Challenge Against Canada
Scotland’s hopes of making a deep run in the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 hinge on Saturday’s pivotal Pool B clash against Canada at Sandy Park, Exeter, with kick-off scheduled for 12:00 BST. Both teams have already secured spots in the quarter-finals, but a win in this game could prove decisive in shaping their path through the tournament.
Scotland head coach Bryan Easson has highlighted the importance of the fixture, seeing it as a “huge opportunity” for his squad. “We made it very clear from the start that we weren’t just here to compete—we’re here to reach the latter stages,” Easson said. “This game gives us a chance to put a mark on the World Cup and continue the progress we’ve shown so far.”
For Scotland, a Pool B victory over the world number two Canadians would likely allow them to avoid facing hosts and favourites England in the quarter-finals, offering a more favourable route toward the semi-finals. Despite being considered underdogs, Easson is confident that his team’s preparation and past performances in the tournament set them up for a strong challenge.
Scotland have made two key changes to their starting front row after last weekend’s win over Fiji. Hooker Lana Skeldon and tighthead Lisa Cockburn will start, with Elis Martin dropping to the bench and Elliann Clarke unavailable for selection. Cockburn impressed last week as a substitute, earning her starting spot. Lock Sarah Bonar will celebrate her 50th international cap, while Jade Konkel returns to the squad, coming off the bench in a 6-2 replacement rotation.
Easson is realistic about the challenge presented by Canada, who have powered past Fiji and Wales in Pool B with commanding performances. However, he believes Scotland’s own victories over the same teams provide valuable insight and confidence. “We’ve already faced two different styles of play in this pool,” Easson said. “Fiji gave us a physical test similar to what Canada will bring. Meanwhile, Canada’s offloading game is more intricate, so we’ve prepared strategically for what’s ahead. Many of the Canadian players compete in PWR (Premiership Women’s Rugby), and we’ve analysed their games thoroughly. It’s going to be a very tough test, but one we are ready for.”
Scotland’s starting XV for the clash includes Chloe Rollie, Rhona Lloyd, Emma Orr, Lisa Thomson, and Francesca McGhie in the backs. The forwards are led by Helen Nelson, Leia Brebner-Holden, Leah Bartlett, Lana Skeldon, Lisa Cockburn, Emma Wassell, Sarah Bonar, Rachel Malcolm (captain), Rachel McLachlan, and Evie Gallagher. The replacements bench features Elis Martin, Anne Young, Molly Poolman, Jade Konkel, Eva Donaldson, Alex Stewart, Caity Mattinson, and Evie Wills.
Easson, who will step down as Scotland head coach following the tournament, stressed the importance of maintaining focus and seizing the opportunity against a top-ranked side. “We know Canada are strong, but we’ve been building towards this. Every player understands the scale of the challenge, and we are fully prepared to give it everything on Saturday.”
Coverage of the match will be available live across My Newspaper Two, My Newspaper Radio Sports Extra, My Newspaper iPlayer, and the My Newspaper Sport website and app, ensuring fans across the UK can follow all the action.
Scotland face an uphill battle, but with a blend of experience, determination, and tactical preparation, they have the chance to upset the Canadians and make a statement in Pool B of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. A victory would not only boost confidence but also set up a more favourable quarter-final clash, keeping their ambitions of reaching the semi-finals very much alive.
