The side played the women's first international test match against France in 1982.

Women's rugby has increased in popularity in the Netherlands in the past decades.

The airing of the 2015 World Cup on national television has further attributed to the increase in popularity.

[5][6] By virtue of being the highest nation in World Rugby's Women's Rankings who did not take part in the inaugural edition, the Netherlands were given the opportunity to play for a spot in this year's tournament.

[5] (Full internationals only, updated to 14 May 2024) Netherlands 30-player squad for the 2024 WXV 3 competition in Dubai.