BBC Scotland’s Andy Burke:
“There is a definite sense this is a Scotland team moving forward and their ambitions have risen accordingly.
“The big guns of England and France will almost certainly occupy the top two spots, therefore Scotland’s goal is to finish third, something they have managed only twice in the history of the Women’s Six Nations, most recently in 2005.
“Scotland have finished fourth in the past two campaigns. They finished bottom of the table in eight of the 12 Six Nations that came before, so there is clear evidence of the team becoming more competitive.
“Wales, Ireland and Italy are all operating at a similar level to Scotland, and given they host all three in Edinburgh this time around, there is an opportunity to enjoy a very positive campaign that can act as a springboard towards the Rugby World Cup.
“The experienced heads of captain Rachel Malcolm, Jade Konkel, Chloe Rollie and Lisa Thomson are all still key figures, but whereas in previous teams they would be required to drag some of the lesser lights along with them, the dawn of professionalism in the women’s game in Scotland has started to bear fruit, and now the new faces in the squad are arriving better prepared for Test rugby.
“Francesca McGhie, 21, has brought pace and finishing power to an exciting back-three that already boasts proven international performers such as Rollie and Rhona Lloyd.
“Back-row Alex Stewart was Scotland’s breakout star in last year’s tournament, the then 19-year-old producing some dominant displays to mark her out as not only a star of the future, but one for here and now.
“There looks to be an excellent blend of youth and experience in this Scotland squad, one that could produce a big year if they can generate some precious momentum in this Six Nations.”
