Finn Russell injury update: Scotland fly-half sidelined after suffering two setbacks

Sunday, 09 November 2025 at 07:03

byRugby Rucker

Gregor Townsend was proud of Scotland’s fightback against New Zealand — but left gutted after a 25-17 defeat at Murrayfield.

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The Scots trailed 17-0 at the break before roaring back to level the scores on the hour mark. However, despite the All Blacks seeing three players sent to the sin bin, Damian McKenzie’s late try sealed the visitors’ win and denied Scotland a famous first-ever victory in this fixture.

Adding to the frustration, playmaker Finn Russell picked up not one but two injuries during the clash. The talismanic fly-half suffered a knee problem just 17 minutes in, battled on bravely with heavy strapping, then aggravated his ankle late in the game and was forced off with five minutes to go.

Russell will be assessed by Scotland’s medical team and may require a scan before returning to training.

Townsend praised his No.10’s resilience:

Despite the setback, Townsend highlighted Russell’s influence after the knock:

“He had a great 50:22, was physical in defence, and a big part of our attack. Hopefully he’ll be fit for next week, but we’ll have to see.”

Scotland are back at Murrayfield next Sunday to face Argentina, while the All Blacks head to Twickenham for a clash with England.

yer ratings vs All Blacks

1 – Pierre Schoeman – 7.5

Pure power personified. A fan favourite, Schoeman consistently delivers strong carries and dominates the physical exchanges. His ball-carrying ability gives Scotland momentum, and his presence at the breakdown adds real grit to the pack.

2 – Ewan Ashman – 7

Opened the second half with a crucial try for the hosts. Ashman made some defensive errors but showed aggression in the lineout and a willingness to carry hard. With experience, he could become a real lynchpin in the front row.

3 – D’Arcy Rae – 7

Tasked with filling Fagerson’s shoes at tighthead, Rae rose to the occasion. Solid in the scrums and active around the field, he provided stability in a challenging position.

4 – Scott Cummings – 7

Quietly world-class in the engine room. His tackling, work rate, and ability to carry into contact go largely unnoticed but are crucial to Scotland’s forward platform.

5 – Grant Gilchrist – 7

Mr consistent. Gilchrist continues to shine in lineouts and defensive structures, proving once again why he’s a cornerstone of the Scottish pack.

6 – Gregor Brown – 8

Hardworking and tenacious. Brown brings energy and physicality to the back row, often turning up in crucial tackles and breakdowns. His work ethic sets the tone for others.

7 – Matt Fagerson – 7

Brave and committed, always willing to put himself in the thick of the action. His versatility and athleticism make him a constant threat in both attack and defence.

8 – Jack Dempsey – 8

Made a huge shift around the park. Relentless in defence and at the breakdown, Dempsey’s timing, aggression, and work rate disrupted the opposition repeatedly and gave Scotland crucial momentum.

9 – Ben White – 8

Controls the game’s tempo expertly. White’s vision and decision-making combine seamlessly with Russell, forming a halfback partnership that is increasingly difficult to contain. His kicking game adds another dimension to Scotland’s attack.

10 – Finn Russell – 9

Heroic. Battled a heavy knee knock yet produced a superhuman display. Russell dictated play, created opportunities, and demonstrated why he is arguably the world’s best fly-half. His leadership under pressure was key, though he was forced off with five minutes remaining.

11 – Kyle Steyn – 8.5

Justified his selection with tenacious defence. Steyn had limited attacking chances but stayed alert and capitalised when they came, scoring the hosts’ second try after 50 minutes. His versatility in the back three is a real asset.

12 – Sione Tuipulotu – 7.5

Without his regular centre partner Huw Jones, Tuipulotu looked slightly off balance but never stopped working. Strong in attack and defence, he continues to develop into a well-rounded centre.

13 – Rory Hutchinson – 7

Some inaccurate passing, but Hutchinson was solid defensively, making key tackles and putting constant pressure on his opposite number. His consistency helps anchor Scotland’s midfield.

14 – Darcy Graham – 7.5

Industrious and relentless. Graham carried strongly, remained Scotland’s biggest attacking threat, and caused repeated problems with his pace and support lines.

15 – Blair Kinghorn – 5

A tough outing for Kinghorn. One fan brutally summed it up: “The harsh truth of that half is that New Zealand’s 17-point lead sits mostly at the feet of Blair Kinghorn.”

He will need to regroup after a difficult day under pressure.

Replacements – 5/10 overall

Contributed during the second-half performance. They didn’t make a huge impact, but staying under the radar also indicates they maintained the team’s standards effectively. Elliot Millar Mills the pick of the bunch.

Editor’s Picks:

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