The race to succeed Gregor Townsend as Scotland head coach is beginning to take shape, with several big names emerging as possible replacements.
Townsend's contract runs until the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, but speculation over his future continues to grow.
Former Ireland fly-half Ronan O'Gara is among ten names included in RUCK's predicted odds, alongside former All Blacks boss Scott Robertson.
Meanwhile, former Scotland lock Jim Hamilton has thrown his support behind Mike Blair, adding another intriguing name to the conversation.
But who is our favourite to take charge at Murrayfield?
We've ranked ten potential successors, counting down from the outsiders to our number one choice.
These are RUCK's hypothetical odds, not bookmaker prices. No official shortlist has been announced.
Next Scotland head coach odds
10. Ronan O'Gara – 33/1
Perhaps the biggest long shot on our list.
Ronan O'Gara has established himself as one of Europe's leading coaches after guiding La Rochelle to consecutive Champions Cup titles.
The former Ireland fly-half has regularly been linked with major international jobs.
However, the 49-year-old signed a contract extension until 2031 in September, committing his future to the French club.
Would he consider Scotland? There is no indication that he is currently pursuing the role.
RUCK verdict: An ambitious outside option, but an appointment that would make headlines.
9. Gregor Brown – 25/1
Could Scottish Rugby promote from within?
Brown has worked closely with Townsend's squad and understands the national setup.
His experience with Glasgow and Scotland would provide continuity.
However, stepping into the top job would represent a significant promotion.
RUCK verdict: More likely to remain part of a future coaching team than lead it.
8. Michael Cheika – 20/1
Never afraid of a challenge.
Cheika has coached Australia and Argentina, taking the Wallabies to the 2015 Rugby World Cup final.
He also has extensive club experience across Europe.
His demanding approach would certainly represent a change from Townsend.
RUCK verdict: An intriguing wildcard if Scotland wants an experienced international operator.
7. Dave Rennie – 16/1
Rennie already knows Scottish rugby extremely well.
The New Zealander enjoyed a successful spell with Glasgow Warriors before coaching Australia and returning to international rugby with the All Blacks.
He also works closely with Mike Blair.
His current commitments make a move unlikely, but his experience would put him in the conversation.
RUCK verdict: A difficult appointment to pull off.
6. Phil Dowson – 12/1
One of English rugby's most highly regarded coaches.
Dowson has built an exciting Northampton Saints side, helping the club win the English Premiership in 2024.
His attacking philosophy and ability to develop young players make him an attractive candidate.
However, convincing him to leave Northampton could be another matter.
RUCK verdict: A bold appointment with plenty of potential.
5. Stuart Lancaster – 10/1
The former England boss would bring considerable international experience.
Lancaster led England between 2011 and 2015 before rebuilding his coaching reputation with Leinster.
He later took charge of Racing 92 and has experience working in demanding environments.
His reputation for developing players could appeal to Scottish Rugby.
RUCK verdict: An experienced outsider worth considering.
4. Scott Robertson – 6/1
Could Scotland land one of rugby's biggest coaching names?
Robertson won seven consecutive Super Rugby titles with the Crusaders before taking charge of New Zealand.
His All Blacks tenure ended in 2026, leaving him available for another major opportunity.
He also has Scottish connections, having previously played for Ayr.
RUCK verdict: A statement appointment, although attracting him could prove difficult.
3. Mike Blair – 5/1
Jim Hamilton wants his former Scotland teammate in the conversation.
Blair, who won 85 international caps, currently works as the All Blacks' attack coach under Dave Rennie.
He previously coached Scotland and Edinburgh before rebuilding his reputation in Japan and New Zealand.
Hamilton recently said: "When the time comes for Gregor Townsend to eventually move on from Scotland, I hope Mike's name is in that conversation."
RUCK verdict: A fascinating option, particularly if Scotland could pair him with Laidlaw.
2. Clark Laidlaw – 4/1
One of the most interesting names on the list.
The son of Scotland legend Roy Laidlaw guided the Hurricanes to the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific title.
He has also enjoyed success coaching New Zealand's sevens side.
Crucially, Laidlaw has already indicated he would welcome a conversation with Scottish Rugby.
RUCK verdict: A genuine challenger to Smith who could become a leading contender.
1. Franco Smith – 2/1
The man everyone has been talking about.
Smith transformed Glasgow Warriors into United Rugby Championship winners in 2024 and has built an impressive reputation at Scotstoun.
The South African also has international experience from his spell in charge of Italy.
His Glasgow contract runs until 2028, but that hasn't stopped speculation about a move to Murrayfield.
Smith knows Scottish rugby, understands the player pool and has already shown he can deliver silverware.
The competition is fierce, but for now, Smith remains the man everyone else has to beat.
RUCK verdict: The clear favourite. He knows the Scottish game, has delivered trophies and looks the most natural successor to Townsend.
