Ainsworth Starts for Scotland Women Against Black Ferns

Ceitidh Ainsworth will make her inaugural start for Scotland Women at scrum-half this Saturday as they face New Zealand in the WXV Series. This marks a significant development for the Glasgow Warriors player, who earned her first cap last weekend as a replacement against Canada.

Veteran lock Sarah Bonar also reenters the matchday squad for the first time since the 2025 Rugby World Cup, adding crucial experience from the bench. Her return follows an injury layoff, and she is poised to earn her 52nd cap.

Squad Changes for Black Ferns Clash

In the forwards, Holland Bogan, another Glasgow lock, returns to the starting XV for only her second cap. Sale Sharks’ Eva Donaldson gains a start on the openside flank, while Glasgow’s Anne Young secures the loosehead prop position, completing the changes in the tight five. This strategic shift was reported by BBC Rugby Union detailing the squad announcement.

Rhea Clarke, the scrum-half Ainsworth replaces, shifts to the bench. Similarly, Sale prop Leah Bartlett moves from the starting lineup to a replacement role. Bristol Bears second row Hollie Cunningham and Glasgow forward Becky Boyd are omitted from the matchday squad entirely for this fixture, according to BBC Rugby Union's reporting.

Player Form and Outlook

The WXV Series represents a critical international platform for Scotland, allowing players to test themselves against some of the world’s best teams. The opportunity for younger players like Ainsworth and Bogan to gain starting experience in such high-stakes matches is invaluable for their development and the long-term prospects of the national team. For more on the growing landscape of women's rugby, see our broader women's rugby coverage.

Looking Ahead in the WXV Series

This series is not only about individual player development but also about Scotland’s standing in the international women’s game. Performing well against top-tier nations like New Zealand, even in a loss, can contribute to improved rankings and a greater profile for the sport in Scotland. The upcoming match against the Black Ferns is a key fixture in their WXV campaign.