The Scotland squad have arrived safely in New Zealand ahead of next month’s Rugby World Cup.

And as they left Edinburgh, they received a good luck message that underlined the support they are receiving.

Scottish Rugby’s patron, HRH The Princess Royal, wrote to players and management wishing them “the best of fortune.”

In the letter, HRH said: “I would like to congratulate Captain Rachel Malcolm, Head Coach Bryan Easson and all members of the Scotland Women’ s Rugby World Cup squad, players, supporting staff and management, for your achievement in qualifying for the Women’ s Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

“This is the first time Scotland has qualified since 2010, so I know none of you have played in a World Cup Final tournament before. You have earned your places in the squad, and the team has earned its place at the tournament, through your qualifying wins against Ireland and Colombia.

“I wish you the best of fortune in your tough opening pool games against Wales, Australia and New Zealand and whatever happens next, so that you can advance to the final.”

Scotland’s first pool match is on Sunday 9 October against Wales in Whangarei, kicking off at 5.45am BST.

View The Princess Royal’s message