The Rugby World Cup 2025 is set to begin with an electrifying match between Scotland and Wales at the Salford Community Stadium on Saturday, 23 August. This opening fixture in Pool B is crucial for both teams as they aim to set the tone for their tournament campaigns.

Team News

Scotland Scotland's most capped player, Lana Skeldon, has been declared fit after recovering from an ankle injury sustained in the final warm-up match against Ireland. Skeldon, known for her scoring prowess against Wales, will start in the front row alongside Leah Bartlett and Elliann Clarke. Captain Rachel Malcolm leads a strong back row featuring Rachel McLachlan and Evie Gallagher, who will make her World Cup debut.

Wales Wales have mostly reverted to the starting XV that secured a notable win over Australia in the first Test in Brisbane last month. Co-captain Alex Callender, who was a doubt after limping off in the second Test defeat in Sydney, has been declared fit to lead the team alongside Kate Williams. The back row is completed by Bethan Lewis, and Lleucu George will start at fly-half, renewing her partnership with scrum-half Keira Bevan.

View from the Camps

Scotland's preparations have been less than ideal, with players facing contract uncertainties and head coach Bryan Easson departing after the tournament. However, Easson emphasized that all issues have been set aside, and the team is fully focused on the World Cup. Captain Rachel Malcolm highlighted the group's high spirits and energy, which they aim to channel into a strong performance.

Wales, on the other hand, have had smoother preparations. Head coach Sean Lynn, who joined the team just before the Six Nations, expressed his excitement and confidence in the squad. Co-captain Kate Williams stressed the importance of starting strong and building momentum from the first game.

Historical Context

This will be the third Rugby World Cup meeting between Scotland and Wales. Wales previously defeated Scotland in the 1994 quarter-final and during the pool stage in 2022. However, Scotland has won the last three Tests against Wales outside of the World Cup. Both teams are eager to make a mark in this tournament, with Scotland aiming to improve on their 2022 performance, where they lost all three pool games.

Match Expectations

Fans can anticipate a closely contested match, as recent encounters between these Celtic cousins have been tight. The winner of this fixture could significantly boost their chances of advancing to the knockout stages, making this opener a pivotal moment in the tournament.

Line-ups

Scotland: Chloe Rollie; Rhona Lloyd, Emma Orr, Lisa Thomson, Francesca McGhie; Helen Nelson, Leia Brebner-Holden; Leah Bartlett, Lana Skeldon, Elliann Clarke, Emma Wassell, Sarah Bonar, Rachel Malcolm (capt), Rachel McLachlan, Evie Gallagher

Wales: Nel Metcalfe; Lisa Neumann, Hannah Dallavalle, Courtney Keight, Jasmine Joyce-Butchers; Lleucu George, Keira Bevan; Gwenllian Pyrs, Kelsey Jones, Donna Rose, Alaw Pyrs, Gwen Crabb, Kate Williams (co-capt), Bethan Lewis, Alex Callender (co-capt)

Officials

Referee: Maggie Cogger-Orr (NZR) Assistant referees: Holly Wood (RFU), Jess Ling (RA) TMO: Ian Tempest (RFU) FPRO: Rachel Horton (RA)