Louise McMillan to retire from international rugby

The 29-year-old made 61 caps for Scotland Women and scored one try, having made her debut in November 2016 against Spain in a World Cup qualifier at Scotstoun, becoming cap number 196.

Her most recent appearances for Scotland came during the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations, coming off the bench against Italy before starts against both France and Ireland.

Upon retiring from the international game, McMillan said: “After ten years involved in the set-up, I have decided to step away from international rugby.

“I have given this shirt everything I have over the last decade. Juggling a full-time job alongside elite rugby was a massive challenge, but coming back into the programme for the Six Nations was so rewarding. I am so glad I got the opportunity to prove myself to my coaches, teammates, and supporters, and to finish this journey on my own terms. Now feels like the absolute right time to step into the next chapter.

“A huge thank you to my family, friends, teammates, and all the supporters who have backed me throughout my career, especially over this past year. Your support has given me so much strength in times when I doubted myself.

“I’ve seen firsthand how far this programme has come on and I’m so excited to see what the team achieves with continued backing. These girls deserve all the love and support in the world.”

Across her decade in a Scotland Women jersey, Louise featured at several editions of the Six Nations, played in the WXV2 competitions and at the 2021 Rugby World Cup, which was played in 2022.

Louise began playing rugby as a mini at Birkmyre RC, before going on play with Hillhead Jordanhill, joining the team in 2015.

With the Glasgow-based club, she captained the team to victories in the Sarah Beany Cup in 2017 and 2018 and led them to the Women’s Premier League Championship in 2018. She also represented Glasgow Warriors in the Celtic Challenge.

Following the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, Louise joined PWR club Saracens at the start of the 2022/23 season. She will continue playing club rugby with the London club for the 2026/27 campaign.

In addition to her XV rugby career, Louise was also part of the Scotland Women 7s squad that won the Rugby Europe Trophy in 2018, securing promotion to the Grand Prix competition.

Scottish Rugby would like to thank Louise for her dedication, commitment and service to the national team and wishes her all the best for the next stage of her career.