Cruikshank names new-look backline for Brython test

30 Jan 2026

Edinburgh Rugby Head Coach Claire Cruikshank has named a changed backline for tomorrow’s huge Celtic Challenge clash against Brython Thunder at Hive Stadium (Saturday 31 January, 3pm kick-off) – live on BBC Sport

Edinburgh go into tomorrow’s must-win match with new look partnerships across the backline, with Nicole Marlow handed the reins at fly-half from the start.

After a disappointing result last time out against Gwalia Lightning, Cruikshank is looking for a response in front of a bumper crowd at Hive Stadium.

“Last week wasn’t a performance we wanted, and it didn’t feel like us as a team, especially in the second half. We want to bounce back from that and put in a huge display in front of our home fans.

“It’s looking like it will be one of the biggest crowds this team will have played in front of, so we want to get on the front foot and give them something to get behind.”

Lucy MacRae shifts to full-back for her first start in the back-three, alongside speedsters Hannah Walker and Cieron Bell in the back three.

In the centres, Lisa Brown once again starts at outside centre, this week alongside Hannah Ramsay who shifts one position from fly-half.

Marlow is joined in the halves by scrum-half Pip Benson, who comes into the side for her first start of the season.

Cruikshank names an unchanged tight-five, with Ailson Wilson (loosehead prop) and Faye Sutherland (tighthead) alongside hooker Aila Ronald, with Natasha Logan and Adelle Ferrie once again starting at lock.

Lauryn McGrotty starts at blindside flanker, with Alex Stewart and number eight Merryn Gunderson returning to the side having recovered from illness and injury respectively.

Edinburgh Rugby side to face Brython Thunder at Hive Stadium (Saturday 31 January, 3pm kick-off) – live on BBC Sport

15. Lucy MacRae

14. Cieron Bell
13. Lisa Brown
12. Hannah Ramsay
11. Hannah Walker CAPTAIN

10. Nicole Marlow
9. Pip Benson

1. Alison Wilson
2. Aila Ronald
3. Faye Sutherland
4. Adelle Ferrie
5. Natasha Logan
6. Lauryn McGrotty
7. Alex Stewart
8. Merryn Gunderson

Replacements

16. Kaylee Fraser
17. Talei Tawake
18. Hannah McMahon
19. Charlotte Russell
20. Catriona Moody
21. Emily Love
22. Scarlett Haddow
23. Bethan Mathieson*

*Edinburgh Rugby debut