Head coach Bryan Easson has been able to name one of his strongest squads to date, with Scotland heading into the match with what he describes as a “clean bill of health” after a positive training block.
“It’s been really good to be able to have a full week’s training with these guys,” said Easson. “Yeah, it’s a strong side, probably the strongest one that I’ve been able to pick over my time with the national squad. So, yeah, pleased that it’s come at this time.”
The return of experienced lock Emma Wassell and Sarah Bonar adds both leadership and power in the engine room. The pair last started together against Wales in Cardiff – a match Scotland memorably won, ending a 20-year drought. Easson knows what they bring.
“Brilliant around the group, but when you get them on the rugby pitch, they’re a different animal,” he said. “The options that that gives us, not just set piece-wise, but around the field, both in attack and defence, is a real bonus to have them for this
game.”
Up front, Lana Skeldon’s return is also a boost. The hooker has battled back from injury, with captain Rachel Malcolm highlighting just how influential her presence is.
“Every single time I’ve had the opportunity to play alongside Lana, she’s made a difference,” said Malcolm. “Her defensive organisation and chop tackling are massive for us, especially against a team who are going to be pretty direct with big
ball carriers.”
Malcolm, who leads Scotland into her second World Cup, admits that while excitement is bubbling in camp, the focus has been laser sharp all week.
“We’ve obviously got excitement bubbling, but it feels quite calm. It feels like we’re ready,” she said. “Training’s been really sharp, probably the sharpest we’ve had in the build-up.”
There’s respect for Wales too, with both nations sitting close in the world rankings and having traded wins in recent years. Malcolm expects another fiercely contested battle.
“We’re both similarly matched in terms of world rankings,” she explained. “They’re probably a bit more direct, and we want to move the ball a little bit more, but ultimately, you’ve got two teams who are immensely passionate and not willing to
give an inch. That’s why you see those seesaw battles.”
The sense of occasion is not lost on anyone in the Scottish camp. Malcolm says the team carry not only their own ambitions but also the responsibility of inspiring the next generation.
“We represent Scotland women of past, present, and future,” she said. “To be on this world stage at what is going to be the biggest World Cup women’s rugby has ever seen – we know that is a big responsibility. It motivates us every single day.”
With both sides viewing this opener as pivotal to progression, Saturday’s clash promises intensity, passion, and fine margins. For Scotland, the chance to start fast in Salford could set the tone for the tournament ahead.