2025/26 Celtic Challenge fixtures confirmed as 1872 Cup double-header returns!

Edinburgh Rugby women’s 2025/26 Celtic Challenge fixtures have been announced, highlighted by a highly anticipated intercity double-header on Saturday 27 December.

The historic occasion will see Head Coach Claire Cruikshank’s’ Edinburgh side face Glasgow Warriors women at Hive Stadium (kick-off 12 noon) before the men’s teams battle it out for the 1872 Cup at Scottish Gas Murrayfield later that afternoon (kick-off 3pm).

The return of the double-header is poised to be a pivotal moment for the capital side as the Celtic Challenge enters its third season, providing a huge platform for the women’s team.

Edinburgh will launch their Celtic Challenge campaign with an away fixture against Irish Wolfhounds at Energia Park on Saturday 20 December.

Following the festive double-header against Glasgow, the team will kick off the New Year with a home clash against the Wolfhounds at Hive Stadium on Saturday 10 January (kick-off 3pm).

The following weeks see Edinburgh traveling away to face Gwalia Lightning on Saturday 17 January, before hosting back-to-back Welsh opposition at home at Hive Stadium: first against Gwalia Lightning on Saturday 24 January (kick-off 1pm), and then against Brython Thunder on Saturday 31 January (kick-off 3pm).

The campaign continues with two further away trips against Brython Thunder at Parc y Scarlets and Clovers at Dexcom Stadium. Edinburgh will close their home season in style with a final fixture against Clovers at Hive Stadium on Saturday 28 February (kick-off 1pm), ahead of the final regular season game away to Glasgow Warriors on Friday 6 March.

Head Coach Claire Cruikshank reflected on the schedule, and said: “Looking at the fixture list, we know it’s a demanding but exciting schedule that will really challenge the squad and push us to perform from the very first game. But to be kicking off our home campaign with the historic 1872 Cup double-header at Hive Stadium is absolutely massive for us, and a brilliant opportunity to showcase women’s rugby on such a huge day for the club.”

Cruikshank added: “It’s fantastic to see the Celtic Challenge step into season three. This competition is vital for the growth of the game and providing a high-level competitive environment for our players to develop. We’re fully focused on building a real fortress here at Hive Stadium, and we need our supporters there with us.

“We’re pushing hard to have more and more fans in those stands every week, because their energy is crucial. It makes all the difference when we’re out on the pitch.”

Tickets for all home Celtic Challenge fixtures will be available in the coming weeks. Supporters are advised to stay tuned to the club’s social channels for further ticketing updates.