There’s something about the Six Nations that brings out the best in Scottish rugby players. Maybe it’s the jersey. Maybe it’s playing against England, France, Wales. Whatever it is, the intensity is different, and I heard that from the coach in his pre tournament address.
Scotland’s going into this year’s tournament with something to prove. They’re not the favorites; that’s for France or Ireland. But they’re capable. They’ve shown it before. The coach’s message to the squad was straightforward: this is what you trained for. These are the matches that matter. Relish them.
What’s interesting about this Scotland squad is the balance of experience and youth. Established internationals who’ve played this competition at the highest level. Younger players coming through who’ve got something to prove. That combination can work if it’s managed right.
The fixtures aren’t easy. Scotland’s opening against Italy, which is winnable, but Italy’s been competitive in recent tournaments. Then it gets tougher. Wales away. England at Murrayfield. France. These are proper tests, and Scotland will need to be at their best.
I’ve been around rugby long enough to know that mental approach matters as much as skill. Players who enjoy the challenge tend to perform better than players who are intimidated by it. The coach’s trying to create that mentality; relish, not fear.
If Scotland can stay competitive through the tournament, keep winning tight matches, they could find themselves in contention come the final week. That’s all you can ask for. It’s not about winning the championship. It’s about showing you belong at this level.