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

Exeter's Rising Stars Shine in Pre-Season Victory Over Ospreys
Rugby

Exeter's Rising Stars Shine in Pre-Season Victory Over Ospreys

Exeter's young backs impress in a 38-26 pre-season win over Ospreys, showcasing their potential for the upcoming season.

Mastering Rugby Union: Key Terms, Rules, and Strategies Explained
Rugby

Mastering Rugby Union: Key Terms, Rules, and Strategies Explained

Discover the essential terms, rules, and strategies of Rugby Union, from scoring to positions and game restarts, in this comprehensive guide.

Dominant England Starts Rugby World Cup with a Spectacular 11-Try Victory Over USA
Rugby

Dominant England Starts Rugby World Cup with a Spectacular 11-Try Victory Over USA

England's women's rugby team showcased their dominance with an 11-try win over the USA in the Rugby World Cup opener, setting a new attendance record.

Rhona Lloyd Rekindles Her Passion for Rugby Post-Olympic Disappointment
Rugby

Rhona Lloyd Rekindles Her Passion for Rugby Post-Olympic Disappointment

Scotland's Rhona Lloyd shares her journey of rediscovering her love for rugby after missing out on the Olympics, as she prepares for the Women's Rugby World Cup.

Dan Sheehan Faces Four-Match Ban for Reckless Play in Lions vs. Australia Test
Rugby

Dan Sheehan Faces Four-Match Ban for Reckless Play in Lions vs. Australia Test

Dan Sheehan receives a four-match ban for a reckless clearout in the Lions' final Test against Australia, impacting upcoming matches.

Countdown to Glory: The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup Preview
Rugby

Countdown to Glory: The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup Preview

Get ready for the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup with a comprehensive preview of the teams, key players, and what to expect in this thrilling tournament.

Ireland Rugby Team Stands United with Shannon Ikahihifo Amid Breast Cancer Battle
Rugby

Ireland Rugby Team Stands United with Shannon Ikahihifo Amid Breast Cancer Battle

Ireland's rugby team rallies behind Shannon Ikahihifo as she faces a breast cancer diagnosis, showcasing unity and support in the sport.

Lions Tour 2025: Player Ratings, Key Moments, and Series Analysis
Rugby

Lions Tour 2025: Player Ratings, Key Moments, and Series Analysis

A comprehensive analysis of the 2025 Lions Tour, featuring player ratings, key moments, and insights into the series against Australia.

Jess Breach's Hat-Trick Leads England to Historic Women's Rugby World Cup Victory Over Samoa
Rugby

Jess Breach's Hat-Trick Leads England to Historic Women's Rugby World Cup Victory Over Samoa

Jess Breach scores a hat-trick as England secures a record-breaking win against Samoa in the Women's Rugby World Cup.

Women's Rugby World Cup 2025: Record Wins, Stellar Performances, and Unforgettable Crowds
Rugby

Women's Rugby World Cup 2025: Record Wins, Stellar Performances, and Unforgettable Crowds

The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup kicked off with record-breaking wins, standout performances, and passionate crowds, setting the stage for an unforgettable tournament.

Top Players to Watch in the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup
Rugby

Top Players to Watch in the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup

Discover the top players to watch in the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup, featuring standout talents from around the globe.

Ireland's Rugby World Cup Warm-Up: Monaghan and Parsons Return to Strengthen Squad
Rugby

Ireland's Rugby World Cup Warm-Up: Monaghan and Parsons Return to Strengthen Squad

Ireland's Rugby World Cup preparations get a boost as key players Sam Monaghan and Beibhinn Parsons return for the warm-up match against Scotland.

Wallabies Triumph Over Lions in Thrilling Sydney Showdown to Salvage Series
Rugby

Wallabies Triumph Over Lions in Thrilling Sydney Showdown to Salvage Series

In a dramatic final Test, Australia's Wallabies defeated the British and Irish Lions in Sydney, showcasing resilience and skill in challenging conditions.

Historic Triumph: Argentina Clinches First Home Victory Over All Blacks in Thrilling Rugby Championship Clash
Rugby

Historic Triumph: Argentina Clinches First Home Victory Over All Blacks in Thrilling Rugby Championship Clash

Argentina made history by securing their first home victory over New Zealand in a thrilling Rugby Championship match, ending a 40-year wait.

Dalton's World Cup Journey: A Dream Realized in Women's Rugby
Rugby

Dalton's World Cup Journey: A Dream Realized in Women's Rugby

Aoife Dalton shares her exhilarating journey and aspirations in the Women's Rugby World Cup, highlighting her partnership with Eve Higgins and Ireland's strategic approach.

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.