Gunderson returns for Gwalia match-up

The abrasive loose forward missed out on the side’s last match against Clovers with concussion but returns to face Gwalia wearing the number eight jersey.

Gunderson is one of four changes made for the visit of lightning, with Talei Tawake, Sarah Denholm, and Shona Campbell all coming into the starting line-up.

On the match, Cruikshank said: “It’s good to be back at home on Sunday, we have a good record at Hive Stadium and it’s something we’re proud of and want to protect.

“We’ll learn from the Clovers game. This is the first time this group has felt some big pressure, so we need to learn how to deal with that.”

The capital back-three is unchanged for a fourth consecutive match, with Lucia Scott starting at full-back alongside wing duo of Hannah Walker and Cieron Bell – both of whom having scored five tries in three matches.

Cruikshank names an all-new midfield partnership, with GB Sevens and Scotland star Campbell making her first start for the capital at outside centre, partnering Denholm in the twelve jersey.

The capital half-back pairing remains unchanged, with Rhea Clarke (scrum-half) alongside Hannah Ramsay (fly-half).

Tawake makes her first start at loosehead as the only change in the front row, with vice-captain Aila Ronald and Hannah McMahon retaining their places at hooker and tighthead prop respectively.

Edinburgh’s lock partnership continues to build consistency, with Adelle Ferrie and Natasha Logan starting together once again.

Gunderson is the sole change in the back-row, with Charlotte Fosbeary (blindside) and captain Alex Stewart (openside) completing the starting pack.

Edinburgh Rugby side to face Gwalia Lightning at Hive Stadium
Sunday 26 January, kick-off 11.30am – live on RugbyPass TV.

15. Lucia Scott

14. Cieron Bell
13. Shona Campbell
12. Sarah Denholm
11. Hannah Walker VICE-CAPTAIN

10. Hannah Ramsay
9. Rhea Clarke

1. Talei Tawake
2. Aila Ronald VICE-CAPTAIN
3. Hannah McMahon
4. Adelle Ferrie
5. Natasha Logan
6. Charlotte Fosbeary
7. Alex Stewart CAPTAIN
8. Merryn Gunderson

Replacements

16. Karis Craig
17. Alison Wilson
18. Chloe Brown*
19. Lucy Christie
20. Samaanther Taganekurukuru
21. Pip Benson
22. Lucy MacRae
23. Nicole Marlow

Unavailable: Holly McIntyre, Millie Capaldi, Molly Poolman

*Edinburgh Rugby debut