Scotland’s ‘complete’ display delights Hastings

SCOTT Hastings classed Scotland’s win over England last weekend as their most complete performance in a long time. The Scots secured backto-back wins at Twickenham for the first time in their history with their 29-23 bonus-point victory.

Asked if that was Scotland’s most complete performance he had seen in recent years, Hastings, who won 65 caps over nine years, said on The Rugby Paper podcast: “Absolutely, 100 per cent. There was more cohesion within their play, there was a settledness about the side, there was a composure and an understanding. I think that came across in their attack-minded way of playing.

“For many years Scotland have absorbed pressure, fallen out of games, and then played catch up rugby but here was a team full of confidence.”

The famous victory set up the chance to win their opening two Six Nations games for the first time since 1996.

After Scotland were dumped out of the 2019 World Cup in the group stages, Gregor Townsend and his side have been striving to rejuvenate Scotland into a fearsome outfit once again.

Since then, the Scots have won three straight Calcutta Cups and have now equalled their alltime high in World Rugby rankings, leapfrogging England into fifth place.

Hastings, who was part of the ITV commentary team at Twickenham, also stated the fundamental role that maverick fly-half Finn Russell has played in their revival.

The former British and Irish Lion added: “I’m glad to hear that he has resolved his issues with Gregor Townsend. Over the years he has crafted his game and understands that he can have a big influence.”

Russell was initially dropped from Scotland’s training squad before the Autumn internationals but the 30-year-old has started Scotland’s last four Tests against New Zealand, Argentina, England and Wales and describes his relationship with Townsend as better than it has ever been.