Scotland faces Argentina in a crucial Autumn Nations Series clash, and the stakes are high! But can Scotland maintain their consistency against a confident Argentinian side riding high after a dominant victory? Let's dive into the details of the Scottish team selection and what to expect from this international rugby showdown.
The match is set to take place at Scottish Gas Murrayfield in Edinburgh on Sunday, November 16th, with a 15:10 GMT kickoff. Fans can catch all the action on BBC Sounds, BBC Radio Scotland, BBC Radio 5 live, and through live updates on the BBC Sport website and app. Prepare for a thrilling afternoon of rugby!
In a significant team update, Rory Darge steps into the starting XV, replacing Matt Fagerson. This is the sole change to the lineup that faced New Zealand the previous weekend. Fagerson will take Darge's place on the bench, offering impact and experience as a substitute. This change could bring a different dynamic to the Scottish back row, with Darge's strengths potentially offering a fresh perspective against the Pumas. But here's where it gets controversial... some fans might argue that Fagerson's physicality would have been more valuable against Argentina's powerful forwards. What do you think?
Darcy Graham is set to celebrate a momentous occasion, earning his 50th cap for Scotland. This is a fantastic achievement for Graham, a player known for his try-scoring ability and unwavering commitment to the team. His experience will be invaluable as Scotland aims to secure a victory on home soil.
Good news for Scottish fans: Finn Russell, the team's talismanic fly-half, has been declared fit to play. Russell sustained knee and ankle issues during the previous match against New Zealand, leading to his substitution. His availability is a major boost for Scotland's attacking prowess, as his creativity and playmaking skills are crucial to unlocking opposition defenses. And this is the part most people miss... Russell's leadership on the field is just as important as his skill. Can he guide Scotland to victory?
Head coach Gregor Townsend has opted for continuity in his selection, demonstrating faith in the team's established combinations. Kyle Steyn retains his place on the wing, partnering Darcy Graham. This means Duhan van der Merwe, despite his impressive try-scoring record, will start on the bench. While Van der Merwe missed out against the All Blacks, despite celebrating his own 50th cap with two tries in the opening autumn series win over the United States, his inclusion as a substitute provides Scotland with a potent attacking weapon to unleash later in the game.
Graham has particularly fond memories of facing Argentina, having scored a hat-trick in their previous encounter, a 52-29 victory back in 2022. That performance will undoubtedly fuel his confidence as he prepares to face the Pumas once again.
Argentina arrives at Murrayfield full of confidence after a commanding 52-28 win over Wales. This victory will have boosted their morale and provided them with valuable momentum heading into this crucial Autumn Nations Series fixture. They will be looking to continue their winning streak and cause an upset against Scotland on their home turf.
Here's the Scotland team in full:
- Scotland: Blair Kinghorn (Toulouse), Darcy Graham (Edinburgh), Rory Hutchinson (Northampton Saints), Sione Tuipulotu (Glasgow Warriors, capt), Kyle Steyn (Glasgow Warriors); Finn Russell (Bath), Ben White (Toulon); Pierre Schoeman (Edinburgh), Ewan Ashman (Edinburgh Rugby), D'arcy Rae (Edinburgh); Scott Cummings (Glasgow Warriors), Grant Gilchrist (Edinburgh), Gregor Brown (Glasgow Warriors), Rory Darge (Glasgow Warriors), Jack Dempsey (Glasgow Warriors).
- Replacements: George Turner (Harlequins), Nathan McBeth (Glasgow Warriors), Elliot Millar Mills (Northampton Saints), Josh Bayliss (Bath), Matt Fagerson (Glasgow Warriors), Jamie Dobie (Glasgow Warriors), Tom Jordan (Bristol Bears), Duhan van der Merwe (Edinburgh).
Will Scotland's continuity and Russell's fitness be enough to overcome a confident Argentina? Or will the Pumas continue their winning ways and secure a memorable victory at Murrayfield? Let us know your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
