Tuesday 2 February 2016 15:47, UK
Scotland could be the dark horses of this year's Six Nations Championship.
Vern Cotter's men came agonisingly close to a World Cup semi-final before falling to a dubious Bernard Foley penalty in the dying seconds against Australia. It was a thriller, if one that left Scotland cheerless, but the evidence is undeniable - Cotter has forged a team of real substance.
Coach: Vern Cotter
Captain: Greig Laidlaw
Last year: Wooden spoon
Strengths: The simple game. With a strong tight five, an energetic back row and a fly-half capable of kicking Scotland into the right positions, Cotter has built a team capable of performing the basics well, though concerns over their defence remain. Out wide, the Scots have try-scorers and can cause problems by adding another helping of expansion to their solid base.
Weaknesses: Defence. Scotland conceded 14 tries in five games during the World Cup. They will need to rectify that if they are to evolve into contenders. Their ability to score tries when needed is proven but if they are to compete at the highest level they will need to be more mean-spirited in defence.
MVP: Greg Laidlaw. The Gloucester scrum-half capped an impressive World Cup with a nomination for World Rugby's Player of the Year. His game management has been impressive, and his leadership is vital. If Scotland are to usher in a new era, it will be led by Laidlaw.
Who we will love: The props. WP Nel is an experienced tighthead while Zander Fagerson is the future. The Scottish front row has strength in depth and will delight fans of the dark arts.
Who will split opinion: Opinion is already split over the favourite to win the opener against England. Scotland have a steady, progressive feel, home advantage and some star turns in Stuart Hogg, Jonny Gray and Laidlaw. In the opposite corner stands England - talented and buoyed by new coach Eddie Jones, but significantly, still under intense pressure.
The big debate: Will Scotland play with the expression that brought them within a cruel penalty concession of beating Australia at the World Cup? Their foundations are solid in the main at this stage, but an expansive attitude can turn them into genuine contenders.
