Gregor Townsend has two big selection dilemmas ahead of Scotland’s first match with New Zealand in three years.
Glasgow Warriors forwards Zander Fagerson and Rory Darge are key players for the national side and have been battling to prove their readiness for Saturday’s clash at Murrayfield.
Both have been sidelined by injury, with Fagerson’s lay-off being particularly lengthy. He has not played since April 5, an absence of seven months, due to calf and knee problems. Darge has been out since September 26 after injuring his knee in Glasgow’s opening game of the new URC season.
The Scotland camp have been making positive noises about the pair but is Townsend prepared to throw them straight in against the All Blacks?
It would be a huge ask, particularly of Fagerson, but he is such a key player for Scotland. Rated as one of the best tighthead props in the world, his absence would be keenly felt against New Zealand. Darge is also a class act but the back row is a position of strength for Townsend’s team.
Here’s how I think they will line up on Saturday, with the coach expected to err on the side of caution:
5. Grant Gilchrist
Likely to resume his second-row partnership with Cummings. Lineout strength will be much needed against the All Blacks. A veteran of the 2017 and 2022 clashes with New Zealand. | SNS Group / SRU
6. Matt Fagerson
The younger Fagerson brother was another who was rested against the Americans, with one eye on this game. Could slot in anywhere in the back row. | SNS Group / SRU
7. Andy Onyeama-Christie
If Darge doesn’t make it, Townsend will be tempted to opt for Saracens flanker Onyeama-Christie, although he is almost spoilt for choice given Perpignan’s Jamie Ritchie and Edinburgh’s Dylan Richardson are also available. | SNS Group / SRU
8. Jack Dempsey
Dempsey hasn’t had much rugby since returning from a long lay-off but his ball-carrying strengths mark him out as such an important player and he is likely to get the nod at No 8. Matt Fagerson is another who could play here should the need arise. | SNS Group / SRU