Scotland Team News: Townsend Drops Van der Merwe, Kinghorn & Graham for Six Nations Opener
In a move that has stunned rugby fans, Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has omitted three of his biggest stars—Duhan van der Merwe, Blair Kinghorn, and Darcy Graham—from the starting XV to face Italy in the Six Nations opener this Saturday in Rome.
Despite Van der Merwe and Graham being the top two try-scorers in Scottish history, Townsend has opted for a radical reshuffle of the back three as Scotland begins its 2026 Championship campaign.
A New-Look Back Three: Dobie and Jordan Step Up
The most significant talking point is the selection of Bristol’s Tom Jordan at full-back. He is flanked by Glasgow Warriors duo Kyle Steyn and Jamie Dobie.
This marks a milestone for Dobie, who will earn his first Six Nations start. Though naturally a scrum-half, his impressive form on the wing for Glasgow this season has convinced Townsend to trust him in the wide channels.
- Starting Wingers: Kyle Steyn & Jamie Dobie
- Starting Full-back: Tom Jordan
- Bench Cover: Darcy Graham (Van der Merwe and Kinghorn omitted from the 23-man squad)
Glasgow Dominance in the Forwards
While the backline features shock exclusions, the pack remains relatively stable, dominated by the Glasgow Warriors contingent.
Grant Gilchrist, 35, brings veteran experience to the second row, edging out younger prospects Gregor Brown and Max Williamson to partner Scott Cummings. The back row is an all-Glasgow affair, featuring Matt Fagerson, Jack Dempsey, and vice-captain Rory Darge.
Scotland Starting Pack vs Italy:
- Front Row: Pierre Schoeman, Ewan Ashman, Zander Fagerson
- Second Row: Grant Gilchrist, Scott Cummings
- Back Row: Matt Fagerson, Rory Darge (VC), Jack Dempsey
The “Huwipulotu” Midfield Remains
Despite the changes elsewhere, the half-back and midfield pairings remain untouched. Finn Russell will pull the strings at fly-half alongside Ben White, while the world-class partnership of Huw Jones and captain Sione Tuipulotu continues in the centers for their 18th Test match together.
