Jim Telfer demands “immature” Scotland anthem axed ahead of England clash

Thursday, 12 February 2026 at 19:22

byRugby Rucker

In a move sure to spark fresh debate among the Tartan Army, Scotland rugby great Jim Telfer has reignited the anthem discussion, insisting the nation should “mature” beyond
Flower of Scotland.

When Scotland run out at Murrayfied this Saturday for their Calcutta Cup showdown with England, Flower of Scotland will once again ring out.

The spine-tingling moment is assured — but Telfer believes the anthem may no longer serve its purpose.

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Telfer’s full take:

“Flower of Scotland is a great song in a way and it does get the hairs on your neck straightening and standing up. But because it’s against another country, I still don’t think it’s the ideal anthem. People sing that song, sing about the English, and it’s just in the moment.”

“After the anthem has passed, we just get on with the game… I still don’t think it should be the national anthem.”

“We need to stop defining ourselves through England, and it would be a sign of maturity if we got ourselves a decent national anthem.”

The critique isn’t limited to former players. Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay has called Flower of Scotland“maximum Scottish cringe,” suggesting the country should “think about coming up with something a bit better” — with Loch Lomond floated as a possible alternative. Some commentators also argue the song is outdated, overly focused on historic battles rather than celebrating modern Scotland.

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Yet defenders of the anthem are loud and proud. Many fans say nothing else gives the same goosebumps or spine‑tingling sense of national pride before a big game. On match day, when thousands sing it together, the effect is undeniable.

So, as Scotland prepares to face England, the anthem debate marches on. Tradition or modernisation? Tefler has made his stance clear — but the Tartan Army will still sing. Loud. Proud. And, for now, against England.

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