5. Tight-Head Lock – Doddie Weir
The late, great George ‘Doddie’ Weir captured the hearts and minds of rugby fans beyond Scotland. Tragically diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease in June 2017, Weir worked tirelessly to raise awareness and generate revenue for research through the fantastic ‘My Name5 Doddie’ campaign. Weir’s on-field career was equally as remarkable, as he was a stalwart of the Scotland row throughout the 1990s. A fan favourite wherever he went, Weir also holds the accolade of being the only Scot to score two tries against the All Blacks in a single test match. A brilliant man, Weir sadly passed away due to MND in November 2022, with an emotional funeral service decorated in his iconic tartan colours.
BACK ROW
6. Blindside Flanker – Finlay Calder
When Finlay Calder captained the 1989 British & Irish Lions on their tour to Australia, he became the first Scotsman to take the lead since Mike Campbell-Lamerton in 1966. He ushered in an era of success for the Lions, who had been undergoing a losing run after the legends of Willie John McBride’s era moved on. Calder took the Lions to a tour victory in ’86, which was their first tour win since ’74. A 34-capped Scotland international, Calder’s ferocity in the tackle and battering efforts at the breakdown made him a revered opponent across the world. A true icon of Scottish representation in the Lions, Calder performed best on the biggest stages.
7. Openside Flanker – Hamish Watson
One of the most loved Scotland internationals, ‘The Mish’ is adored by the Murrayfield faithful. Watson’s disregard for his own saftey sees him put his heart on his sleeve, and his head in the most dangerous places. However, with an excellent tackle technique and amongst the world’s best over the jackal, Watson tends to come away unscathed and reaping the plaudits for his side. With 59 Scotland caps and counting, his career high so far saw him named Player of the Tournament for the 2021 Six Nations. His tireless work ethic has also garnered him Scotland Sevens caps, as Watson’s run out in four competitions in the gruelling match type.
8. Number Eight – John Barclay
Rounding off our starting XV of Scotland greats is John Barclay, who is one of several former captains named amongst the squad. The former Glasgow, Scarlets and Edinburgh man was as tough as they come in the carry, and would batter his way through the gain-line, leaving his opponents bruised on the deck. His international tenure saw him make 76 Scotland caps from 2007 to 2019, and cross over for seven tries from the back of the pack. Following his retirement, Barclay is still seen amongst the rugby landscape, as he offers punditry during Scotland matches.
REPLACEMENTS
16. Colin Deans (Hooker)
17. Ian McLauchlan (Loose-Head Prop)
18. WP Nel (Tight-Head Prop)
19. Nathan Hines (Lock)
20. Jason White (Back Row)
21. Mike Blair (Scrum Half)
22. Gregor Townsend (Fly Half)
23. Gavin Hastings (Back Three)