Scotland Women's head coach Philip Doyle steps down

Scotland Women's head coach Philip Doyle has announced his decision to step down from the role as he was unable to join the team following the Covid-19 shielding rules.

The 55-year-old's contract originally ends in December but he has decided not to return to the role to help the team avoid distraction with the Six Nations tournament set to resume after being on the suspension since March following the pandemic coronavirus.

Doyle's decision means Bryan Easson will step up as head coach for the remainder of the Six Nations tournament of Scotland along with the World Cup qualifiers.

“While it is very frustrating not to be able to continue as Scotland head coach due to the restrictions around Covid-19 I feel it is the right thing to do both for me and also to enable the team to face the coming vital set of matches with some continuity in their coaching," he said.

“I have greatly enjoyed working with the team and feel we’re making good progress on and off the pitch as a group. I will miss being with the players and wish them well in the games ahead and will be watching with interest.”

Doyle had two separate stints with Ireland Women previously and helped them to a Grand Slam victory in the 2013 Women's Six Nations Championship. He also had experience of working with Leinster Women's side in the past.