Scotland's Jade Konkel Steps Up Against France in Women's Six Nations Clash

Scotland's Jade Konkel replaces suspended Evie Gallagher as they face France in a thrilling Women's Six Nations encounter.

Scotland head coach Bryan Easson has made one crucial change to his starting XV for their Women's Six Nations match against France, with experienced forward Jade Konkel replacing the suspended Evie Gallagher at number eight.

Key Team Changes

  • Jade Konkel starts at number eight following Gallagher's one-match ban
  • Potential debuts for Molly Poolman (prop) and Becky Boyd (second row) off the bench
  • Leah Bartlett remains among replacements after scoring against Wales

The Gallagher Situation

Gallagher received a red card in Scotland's opening 20-18 victory over Wales for an illegal clear-out on replacement hooker Kelsey Jones. The disciplinary committee imposed a one-game suspension, opening the door for Konkel's return to the starting lineup.

Easson praised both players: "Jade brings tremendous experience - she debuted for Scotland in 2013 aged just 19. While losing Evie is disappointing after her dominant breakdown performance, Jade ensures smooth transition in our back row balance."

The French Challenge

France enter the match following their 27-15 opening win against Ireland in Belfast. The Stade Marcel-Deflandre in La Rochelle is sold out, with Easson warning his squad about the intimidating atmosphere: "The whole town will come out - they'll be there for warm-up. We've prepared our newer players for this environment."

Recent History

Scotland nearly caused an upset in last year's meeting, leading 5-3 at halftime before falling 15-5 in Edinburgh. Easson draws confidence ahead: "Our performance against France last year was excellent. We've won 13 of our last 17 games and must view this as another opportunity."

Match Details

  • Date: Saturday, 29 March
  • Kick-off: 13:00 GMT
  • Venue: Stade Marcel-Deflandre, La Rochelle
  • Coverage: Live on BBC iPlayer & BBC Sport website

Scotland Starting XV: Rollie, Lloyd, Orr, Thomson, McGhie, Nelson, Brebner-Holden; Young, Skeldon, Clarke, Cunningham, Bonar, Malcolm (capt), McLachlan, Konkel.

Replacements: Martin, Bartlett, Poolman, Ferrie, Boyd, Stewart, Mattinson, Wills.

What to Read Next

Ireland's Redemption Quest: Monaghan Leads Charge in Historic Women's Rugby World Cup Clash
Rugby

Ireland's Redemption Quest: Monaghan Leads Charge in Historic Women's Rugby World Cup Clash

Ireland co-captain Sam Monaghan reflects on three years of rebuilding ahead of their pivotal World Cup opener against Japan, as the team aims to prove their resurgence on rugby's biggest stage.

England Triumphs Over Lightning Delays and USA in Thrilling Rugby Showdown
Rugby

England Triumphs Over Lightning Delays and USA in Thrilling Rugby Showdown

England secured a commanding 40-5 victory against the USA despite two lightning-induced delays in Washington, showcasing their depth with six tries and maintaining a perfect three-win summer tour record.

Wallabies' Valetini Declares Fit for Lions Showdown: 'Hunger to Perform' Ignites Do-or-Die Melbourne Clash
Rugby

Wallabies' Valetini Declares Fit for Lions Showdown: 'Hunger to Perform' Ignites Do-or-Die Melbourne Clash

Australian flanker Rob Valetini confirms fitness for critical Lions Test as Wallabies prepare to unleash physical response at iconic MCG arena in series-deciding showdown.

Juarno Augustus: Ulster's New Powerhouse Poised to Dominate the URC Stage
Rugby

Juarno Augustus: Ulster's New Powerhouse Poised to Dominate the URC Stage

Ulster veteran Rob Herring hails new signing Juarno Augustus as a game-changing force ahead of Edinburgh clash, while reflecting on squad renewal and Ireland ambitions.

Rugby Union Demystified: A Comprehensive Guide to Key Terms, Tactics, and Scoring Strategies
Rugby

Rugby Union Demystified: A Comprehensive Guide to Key Terms, Tactics, and Scoring Strategies

Explore the fundamentals of rugby union with an in-depth breakdown of scoring methods, key terms like scrum and ruck, and tactical insights. Perfect for newcomers and seasoned fans alike.

Welsh Rugby's Lions Ambition: Rising to the Challenge of New Zealand 2029
Rugby

Welsh Rugby's Lions Ambition: Rising to the Challenge of New Zealand 2029

British & Irish Lions chairman Ieuan Evans inspires Wales' rugby stars to target 2029 New Zealand tour, building on Jac Morgan's impactful Lions debut and revitalizing Welsh rugby ambitions.

New Era Begins: Ojomoh Leads England's Fresh Faces Against USA in Washington Showdown
Rugby

New Era Begins: Ojomoh Leads England's Fresh Faces Against USA in Washington Showdown

England unveils three debutants including Bath's Max Ojomoh as they face USA in crucial World Cup preparation match, with Feyi-Waboso returning from suspension at Audi Field.

Cardiff Rugby Seek Thomond Park Breakthrough in URC Showdown Against Munster
Rugby

Cardiff Rugby Seek Thomond Park Breakthrough in URC Showdown Against Munster

Cardiff Rugby aims to end 7-year Irish drought as they face Munster in pivotal URC clash at Thomond Park. Can their revamped squad replicate last season's heroic home performance?

Max Llewellyn: Gloucester's Welsh Powerhouse Primed for International Dominance
Rugby

Max Llewellyn: Gloucester's Welsh Powerhouse Primed for International Dominance

Wales center Max Llewellyn reflects on his career resurgence at Gloucester Rugby and ambitions to cement his place in Wales' new era under coach Steve Tandy through Premiership performances.

Thunderous Triumph: Wallabies Defy Odds to Deny Lions Series Sweep in Sydney Deluge
Rugby

Thunderous Triumph: Wallabies Defy Odds to Deny Lions Series Sweep in Sydney Deluge

Australia's gritty 22-14 victory over the British & Irish Lions in torrential conditions prevents series whitewash, showcasing Wallabies' resilience and emerging talent in dramatic final Test.

Turmoil & Triumph: Scotland's Rugby World Cup Journey Amid Contract Controversy
Rugby

Turmoil & Triumph: Scotland's Rugby World Cup Journey Amid Contract Controversy

Scotland's Women's Rugby World Cup campaign faces off-field contract disputes and leadership changes, while their dominant 38-8 victory over Wales showcases resilience. Former England captain Katy Daley-McLean criticizes union handling of player negotiations.

Wales Co-Captain Alex Callender Fit for World Cup Opener: Key Boost Against Scotland
Rugby

Wales Co-Captain Alex Callender Fit for World Cup Opener: Key Boost Against Scotland

Wales co-captain Alex Callender overcomes injury to lead the team in their crucial Rugby World Cup 2025 opener against Scotland. Key lineup changes and tactical insights revealed as both nations vie for Pool B dominance.

England's Rugby World Cup Final Dilemma: Why Lucy Packer Could Be the Game-Changer Against Canada
Rugby

England's Rugby World Cup Final Dilemma: Why Lucy Packer Could Be the Game-Changer Against Canada

2014 World Cup winner Kat Merchant argues that starting Lucy Packer at scrum-half could elevate England's performance in the Women's Rugby World Cup final against Canada, while pundits debate key lineup changes.

Celtic Clash: Scotland vs Wales Rugby World Cup 2025 Opener Set to Shape Tournament Destiny
Rugby

Celtic Clash: Scotland vs Wales Rugby World Cup 2025 Opener Set to Shape Tournament Destiny

A high-stakes opening match between Scotland and Wales at the 2025 Rugby World Cup reignites historic tensions, with knockout-stage implications and fresh tactical battles in Salford.

Leicester Tigers Stage Epic Premiership Comeback to Stun Harlequins 29-19
Rugby

Leicester Tigers Stage Epic Premiership Comeback to Stun Harlequins 29-19

Leicester Tigers complete remarkable second-half turnaround from 19-0 down against Harlequins, securing new head coach Geoff Parling's first Premiership victory in dramatic fashion.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.