Watson: Twickenham a massive opportunity

IT’S not just the Calcutta Cup that’s up for grabs at Twickenham on Saturday.

Scotland are seeking their first Triple Crown since 1990, and a record book-rewriting first win in TW2 for 34 years as they look to keep their RBS 6 Nations title hopes alive after a confidence-boosting first win against Wales in a decade.

England, on the other hand, are desperate to get a world recordequalling 18th Test victory on the trot.

But instead of feeling the burden of history and expectation, Scotland flanker Hamish Watson says: “It’s a massive opportunity for us.

“We haven’t won there since 1983 but all the boys are really excited about this one. Obviously they’re going for their own record so it’s a great opportunity for us to put an end to all that – which the fans would love.

“I think there obviously is a bit of pressure on that England team at the moment, going for that record.”

And is there a bit of extra edge for the openside who, despite having the most Scottish name imaginable, reveals his Manchester upbringing every time he speaks?

“Not really. I’ve never been to watch a game at Twickenham so it’s not like: ‘God, I want to get them!’,” says 25-year-old Watson.

“It’s exactly the same as any other game for me. I’ve supported Scotland all my life so it’s a big game just because we haven’t beaten them in ages, not because I lived in England when I was younger.

“I did have a Saltire in my bedroom, though. It was almost as if I had to prove to everyone that, with my English accent, I was still Scottish.”