The Women’s Six Nations is well underway, and the influence of the Celtic Challenge is undeniable. A total of 73 elite athletes from the league have earned their place on the international stage, representing Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Their performances highlight the leagues role in developing world class talent.
Wales: A Historic Occasion Amidst Challenges
Wales have faced a tough start to their campaign, falling short in their opening two matches. However, the contribution of Celtic Challenge players has been immense.
Six Celtic Challenge players have been named in both of Wales’ match day squads so far; Gwalia Lightning’s Maisie Davies, Alaw Pyrs, Jenni Scoble, Bryonie King, and Meg Davies, along with Brython Thunder’s Gwen Crabb.
Notably, Jenni Scoble, Maisie Davies, and Alaw Pyrs earned their first international starts, marking a significant milestone in their careers. Scoble made a memorable impact, scoring a try in Wales’ match against the Red Roses. That game also saw history being made for Welsh Women’s Rugby, with 21,185 fans filling the Principality Stadium, a testament to the growing support for the women’s game.
Scotland: Rising Stars Make Their Mark
Scotland have enjoyed a mixed start, winning one match and losing one. So far the Celtic Challenge has been represented by three Edinburgh Rugby players taking the field: Adelle Ferrie, Alex Stewart, and Molly Poolman.
Two of these players, Adelle Ferrie and Molly Poolman, earned their first international caps, further underlining the role of the Celtic Challenge in bridging the gap to the international stage.
Following her debut, Ferrie shared her thoughts on the transition from Celtic Challenge to the international stage:
“The Premiership in Scotland developed me a lot, but the Celtic Challenge was definitely the next step. Coming into Scotland now, it feels like a natural progression, whereas I don’t think if I’d had Celtic Challenge it may have been as natural as it did feel.”
Ireland: Strength in Depth and Standout Performances
Ireland have also recorded one win and one loss so far, with a remarkable 19 Celtic Challenge players named in both match day squads, a testament to the depth of talent within Celtic Challenge teams.
Among the standout performances:
- Aoife Wafer (Wolfhounds) was named Player of the Round in Round 1 after an incredible display:
- 80 minutes played
- 2 tries scored
- 17 carries
- 56 metres made
- 12 successful tackles
- Aoife Dalton (Wolfhounds) excelled in Round 2, claiming Player of the Match.
- Anna McGann (Clovers) delivered a sensational performance, scoring a hat-trick of tries and covering 91 metres.
- Dannah O’Brien reaffirmed her status as one of the game’s top kickers with an astonishing 19/20 successful conversions against Italy.
- Erin King continued her tireless work across the pitch, registering 18 tackles, 13 carries, and 56 metres gained.
Looking Ahead
With 3 rounds left of the Women’s Six Nations 2025, our Celtic Challenge players are making their mark at the highest level. Their performances underline the league’s growing importance in shaping the future of women’s rugby across Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Get in on the action and follow the intense journey of all three nations in the Guinness Women’s Six Nations here!
