BBC to broadcast Summer Test between Italy and Scotland

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - APRIL 13: Scotland's Lisa Thomson in action during a Guinness Women's Six Nations match between Scotland and Italy at The Hive Stadium, on April 13, 2025, in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Mark Scates / SNS Group)

This will be the first broadcast ahead of an exciting season for the squad as they prepare for the Rugby World Cup that kicks off next month, and as they look forward to playing against the Red Roses at Scottish Gas Murrayfield in April 2026, in their first stand-alone match inside the bowl.

This weekend’s match will take place at Stadio Luigi Zaffanella in Viadana, with kick-off scheduled for 6.30pm BST.

UK-based fans will be able to follow all the action live, with Iona Whyte leading the commentary team alongside Rachel Law on co-commentary duties. Coverage will begin ahead of kick-off at 6.20pm, bringing supporters full match action from northern Italy.

This match marks the first of two summer tests for Scotland Women, who will then travel to Virgin Media Park in Cork to face Ireland on Saturday 2 August. Details regarding broadcast arrangements for the Ireland v Scotland match will be announced in due course.

Scotland last faced both opponents during the 2025 Guinness Women’s Six Nations, narrowly losing to Italy (17-25) before securing a hard-fought victory over Ireland (26-19).

Looking ahead to the summer test series, Scotland Women Head Coach Bryan Easson said: “We’re really looking forward to these Summer Tests against Italy and Ireland, which will be a vital part of our preparation for the Rugby World Cup.

Playing two high-quality teams, who pushed us hard during the Six Nations, away from home presents exactly the kind of competitive challenge we need at this stage.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to put our systems under pressure and continue building cohesion within the squad. Every minute we spend together in this pre-season phase is invaluable, and these Test matches will be crucial in sharpening our focus ahead of our opening World Cup match against Wales on 23 August.”

Lynsey McMillan, Scottish Rugby’s Head of Marketing said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering once again with BBC Alba to deliver free-to-air coverage of these matches. BBC Alba has been a long-standing supporter of the growth of the women’s game and continues to share our commitment to making it as accessible as possible – especially as we head into a hugely important season.”