What next for Scotland women?

Scotland's loss to Ireland meant Bryan Easson's side missed out on third place in the Six Nations and automatic qualification for the 2025 World Cup, but they now have the chance to retain the WXV 2 title.

Qualification for the World Cup looks highly likely, although admittedly complex. Five teams have already secured their place, and a further six will qualify as winners of six regional tournaments in 2024.

The final six spots will go to the highest-finishing WXV teams who have not yet qualified - and that is almost certain to include Scotland.

Scotland captain Rachel Malcolm was bittersweet about the Six Nations campaign, saying: “Pushing France so close, coming away with two wins and pushing Ireland right up till the final whistle is an incredible achievement in a tournament, but it doesn’t mean we are satisfied.

“The depth we have built in this squad and the performances we have put together have been good but our ability to put away opportunities is going to be the point of difference to take us to the next level."