Hogg quits Warriors to become a Chief
Scotland’s satisfaction at a crushing victory over Fiji was followed by disappointment at the news that Stuart Hogg is to leave Glasgow Warriors at the end of this season.
The 26-year-old full-back is joining Premiership leaders Exeter Chiefs when his contract expires in July, although his immediate involvement will be limited by World Cup commitments.
There was keen interest in Hogg but the player is understood to have preferred Exeter as a rural club that he believes has similar values to his native Hawick. He was also impressed with the Chiefs’ ambitious coach, Rob Baxter. There were no substantive discussions on staying in Scotland.
Hogg was one of several experienced players who returned on Saturday and, according to Scotland coach Gregor Townsend, their contribution was crucial to Scotland having the patience to wear Fiji down during the first half before dispatching them after the break.
Alongside the full-back, Scotland’s three overseas players: scrum-half Greig Laidlaw, wing Sean Maitland and stand-off Finn Russell, transformed a Scotland side who had performed fitfully in Cardiff the previous weekend.
“This was a more mature performance and that’s down to players like Greig and our experienced players,” said Townsend. “Our back line had maybe 100-150 more caps than last week in Wales after we brought Greig, Finn and Sean Maitland in, plus Stuart Hogg; players who’ve played the last five years for Scotland. The discussions they’ve had on the field are on the money, ‘This is what we need to do to win this game’.”
The performance of several Scotland players gave Townsend cause for thought ahead of Saturday’s encounter with a Springbok side which muscled its way past France to win 29-26. Up front, debutant Sam Skinner had a great game in the second row as he was named man of the match but, crucially when looking ahead to the World Cup when squad sizes will mean versatility is prized, he demonstrated his effectiveness on the blindside flank later in the game. Jamie Ritchie also impressed after moving to openside.
Potentially even more significant, however, was a 10-minute cameo by Adam Hastings which saw the excellent Russell move to stand-off. They combined beautifully to score the last of Scotland’s eight tries. Townsend is clearly pondering whether to use them in tandem, although he says he is unlikely to start with them against South Africa.