Scotland’s 37-7 defeat against Ireland in Parma was their third in as many games in the inaugural competition, following losses against Italy and France in the opening two rounds.
Cruikshank’s side were in the game at half-time following Lucia Scott’s try, which reduced the deficit to 13-7, but Ireland pulled away after the break with hooker Beth Buttimer crossing twice.
“Part of this tournament’s development is how the players can learn from tough games, how they can adapt and push themselves forward to international rugby,” the head coach said.
“There’s definitely learnings from it and once we’ve got over the disappointment, we’ll definitely look at that.
“We are disappointed but I can’t fault the effort and grit of the team throughout the tournament.
“They have come up against three very good sides and one thing I’m super proud of is their fight and resilience, which they can take in to the next stage of their rugby career.”
Scotland were slow out the blocks at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi and fell behind to Sophie Barrett’s try inside the opening six minutes.
Kate Flannery’s boot extended Ireland's lead and both sides saw potential tries prevented by stubborn defence holding their opponents up over the line, with Georgia Bell denied by Ireland captain Jane Neill getting a hand under the ball as she looked to power over.
Scotland eventually found their way over through Scott, who stepped inside neatly to score with the final action of the first half, but they had no answer to Ireland’s forward power after the break as Buttimer led the charge.
Her double came either sides of scores from Eadaoin Murtagh and Hannah Wilson which put the result beyond doubt.
“The more opportunities they get to play at this level, the more equipped they will be to deal with games like this,” Cruikshank added.
“They have never experienced anything like this, three games in 12 days is tough but they have been excellent and I couldn’t be prouder of them all.
“I am gutted for them, they didn’t deserve that scoreline. They feel they have let themselves down.
“The group has become really tight. There are players from all areas of the country, who have had different experiences and play at different levels.
“They are hurting now but they’ll hurt together and come back stronger, for sure, whatever that next step is.”
