Konkel and Bonar back for Scotland's WXV2 title defence

The experienced Jade Konkel returns to the Scotland squad

Jade Konkel and Sarah Bonar return from injury as Scotland prepare to defend their WXV2 title.

Uncapped quartet Aila Ronald, Lucia Scott, Leia Brebner-Holden and Rachel Philipps are also included for the tournament in South Africa, which begins in late September.

Number eight Konkel, capped 62 times, has not played for her country since the 2023 staging, which Scotland won.

Bonar has recovered from a shoulder problem picked up during the Women’s Six Nations in March. However, fellow lock Louise McMillan is not included.

Scotland will take on Italy, Japan and Australia in the six-team competition - which also includes Wales and South Africa - with matches being played in a cross-pool format.

Prior to travelling to Cape Town, the Scots warm up against Wales and Fiji on 6 and 14 September respectively, with both contests at the Hive Stadium in Edinburgh.

Scotland squad for WXV 2

Forwards: Leah Bartlett, Christine Belisle, Sarah Bonar, Elliann Clarke, Lisa Cockburn, Eva Donaldson, Evie Gallagher, Jade Konkel, Rachel Malcolm, Elis Martin, Fiona McIntosh, Rachel McLachlan, Lana Skeldon, Aila Ronald, Alex Stewart, Emma Wassell, Anne Young.

Backs: Leia Brebner-Holden, Coreen Grant, Caity Mattinson, Mairi McDonald, Francesca McGhie, Rhona Lloyd, Helen Nelson, Emma Orr, Rachel Philipps, Lisa Thomson, Chloe Rollie, Lucia Scott, Meryl Smith.