Playing rugby brings Gallagher 'closer' to late dad

Although Evie Gallagher does not have any memories of her late father, the Scotland star feels connected to him due to his passion for rugby.

Her dad, Paul, passed when Gallagher was a young child but despite that - and his aptitude for another sporting pursuit - the number eight harbours a feeling of closeness to him.

"He was actually a very good golf player, that was his skill set," Gallagher revealed.

"My mum always says rugby was his passion and he was looking to get into coaching before he passed.

"I don't have any personal memories of my dad, because I was so young [when he died], but I think it's something I've realised as I've grown up - there is emotion there and I can't really control it, it comes out at weird times."

The 25-year-old is known for her passion on the pitch and has been a tyro in the back-row for Scotland during the World Cup, earning plenty of plaudits.

A turnover machine, she is known for her work at the breakdown, powerful ball-carrying and defensive work-rate, and has even been touted to make the future British & Irish Lions squad in 2027.

"I like to think my passion comes from his passion, and it's a way to feel connected to him because I don't have many memories. It's always something I carry with me, which is really special.

"I actually brought one of his retro Scotland rugby shirts with me, and I wore it for my first World Cup shirt presentation.

"It's little things like that, that make feel close to him even though I don't have much to go on. Anything I can get that adds that sentiment, and helps me - in a good way - bring emotion to my game."