Scotland Revamps Squad for Crucial Test Against France

Scotland Revamps Squad for Crucial Test Against France

Scotland is set to unleash a revamped squad for their upcoming match against France in the 2026 Guinness Men’s Six Nations. This crucial encounter will take place at Scottish Gas Murrayfield on Saturday, March 7, 2026, with kick-off scheduled for 2:10 PM. Fans can catch the action live on BBC One.

Key Changes in the Squad

The Scottish team sees notable changes, particularly in the front row. Loosehead prop Pierre Schoeman and hooker George Turner, both of whom were substitutes during the victory over Wales, have been promoted to starting positions. Additionally, tighthead D’arcy Rae will make his first appearance of this year’s championship.

Jack Dempsey, returning from a bicep injury, will anchor the pack at number eight. Matt Fagerson shifts to the blindside flanker role, while Gregor Brown joins the second row. Vice-captain Rory Darge continues his impressive form on the openside flank after a standout performance in Cardiff.

Dynamic Backline Selection

  • Darcy Graham, who recently tied Scotland’s all-time try record at 35, will start on the right wing.
  • Kyle Steyn, also a try scorer against Wales, is positioned on the left.
  • Blair Kinghorn is set to take the role of full-back.

In the center, Captain Sione Tuipulotu and Huw Jones, who now holds the record for most tries in Six Nations history with 18, will reprise their established partnership. The half-backs remain unchanged, with Finn Russell and Ben White coordinating the play.

Bench Strength and Future Prospects

The bench includes flanker Freddy Douglas, who recently became the youngest Scotland international in over 60 years. Ewan Ashman returns as backup for the hooker position, supported by props Rory Sutherland and Zander Fagerson. Grant Gilchrist and Josh Bayliss complete the forward options, while scrum-half George Horne and Tom Jordan provide versatility in the backline.

As Scotland prepares to reclaim The Auld Alliance trophy, they are confident that these changes will bolster their chances against France in this highly anticipated clash.

Scotland’s Matchday Squad

Position Player Team Caps
15 Blair Kinghorn Toulouse 63
14 Darcy Graham Edinburgh Rugby 53
13 Huw Jones Glasgow Warriors 61
12 Sione Tuipulotu (C) Glasgow Warriors 36
11 Kyle Steyn Glasgow Warriors 31
10 Finn Russell (VC) Bath Rugby 92
9 Ben White Toulon 34
1 Pierre Schoeman Edinburgh Rugby 47
2 George Turner Harlequins 53
3 D’arcy Rae Edinburgh Rugby 5
4 Gregor Brown Glasgow Warriors 15
5 Scott Cummings Glasgow Warriors 48
6 Matt Fagerson Glasgow Warriors 62
7 Rory Darge (VC) Glasgow Warriors 37
8 Jack Dempsey Glasgow Warriors 31

This revamped squad brings renewed optimism as Scotland seeks to secure a vital victory against France.