Wass’ new era for the Thistle

ST ANDREWS, SCOTLAND - AUGUST 07: Emma Wassell during a Scotland Women's World Cup squad announcement at the Old Course, on August 07, 2025, in St Andrews, Scotland. (Photo by Ross MacDonald / SNS Group)

What first seemed like something trivial – a stubborn piece of bread stuck in her throat – turned into something far more serious when scans revealed a benign tumour in her chest. Wassell spent nearly two weeks in hospital and underwent two major surgeries, including a full sternotomy. The road back to rugby was long and uncertain.

Now, twelve months on, she is back.

Having featured for Scotland in the Summer Tests against Italy and Ireland, Wassell is ready to put that chapter behind her and step into a new era.

“To be back playing for Scotland, it’s hard to put into words,” she said.

“There were many moments where I feared I never would again, yet there was also a big part of me that knew I wouldn’t stop until I did. Playing against Italy and Ireland this summer was so special, doing it with my teammates who carried me through. Those games weren’t just about being back on the pitch, they were about proving that I was capable, that I could perform again.

“The games have been a really good test for me to see where I am at and prove to myself that both physically and mentally I am able to perform on the international stage.”

Emma in action against Italy last month.

The symmetry of her return has not been lost on her.

“I have always believed that everything will happen for a reason, and that has been something I have lived by the whole time. We’ve known the dates of the Rugby World Cup for a long time, so I was aware that if I was to be back in time it would be a year to the day since I went into hospital.

“I really hoped the stars would align, and when the fixture landed on that date it gave me hope. It’s a huge reflection point for me because I remember so vividly where I was a year ago and how far I’ve come. This day, this game – it’s something I’ve thought about every single day since.”

Wassell is quick to acknowledge that her comeback has not been a solo effort.

“Each and every single player in the team has been pivotal in me getting back to rugby. They inspired me so much during the Six Nations. I feel lucky, but I’m also ready.

“I know getting on the pitch will as always be a really proud moment for me, but it is also a way for me to close this chapter and start to write a new one, and that is the biggest bit for me. I couldn’t have done it without the support around me; my teammates, friends, medics and management group.”

As she pulls on the number four jersey this Saturday, the occasion will be more than a match; the Rugby World Cup represents both a destination and a new beginning for Oor Wass.