Lucia Scott; full-back’s rapid rise through the ranks

Her age-grade side experience saw the full-back stand out, but it didn’t lead her to think that a senior call-up was coming.

“The Summer Series was a really exciting experience for me and I just think it was the start of what’s been a great journey so far with the Scotland setup. I’ve not been in it for very long but it’s gone from strength to strength and I’ve really enjoyed it so far.”

On her inclusion in the senior squad, she added: “I wasn’t really expecting it. I’d had a few conversations with Shanks (Claire Cruikshank) and various other people but I the day the squad was coming out I was there waiting, not expecting much and then it came out later in the evening and I was just beside myself really, I was absolutely shook.

“It’s been absolutely amazing, I’ve learned so much and met so many nice people. Everyone’s so welcoming and they’ve just made it such an enjoyable experience. I think it’s really pushed my rugby on a lot and I’m just excited to see where it goes really.”

Much of Scott’s initial knowledge of her teammates came from several that she had played against. Representing Hartpury University, the 20-year-old faced some of her new colleagues when they played against Edinburgh University.

“It was a bit funny at first doing the 20s stuff with all of the Edinburgh girls! But pretty quickly we all put that aside and remembered that we’re all on the same team and fighting for the same thing so it was absolutely fine.”

Coming through at full-back, Scott has been working alongside fellow number 15 Chloe Rollie in camp, getting the opportunity to learn from an experienced and well-respected internationalist.

“It’s definitely nice to work with someone so experienced and learn lots of things. I just sort of pick up things and get what I can when I can, because it’s the best of the best and that’s where you get better.”

A previous England U18 cap, Scott qualifies as a Scot through grandparents Anne and Kenneth Scott. It’s hard to tell if it will be Lucia or her father who would be most excited should she make her debut, which could happen in a matter of hours at Hive Stadium.

“Scotland has always been drilled into me from the start, I’ve definitely always supported Scotland right through my rugby career ever since I started when I was about four, and my dad would never let me support anyone else, and so he shouldn’t!

“It’s really exciting, I can’t wait to hopefully get my first cap. I’m slightly nervous and just waiting for the big day but hopefully it goes well. It brings a lot of emotions, which is why I’m trying not to think about it too much! I think I’ll be nervous but also very, very excited. My dad’s definitely going to come and my grandad is going to try and come too, but if not he’ll definitely be watching from somewhere.”