The 2024 Autumn Nations Test Series was an overall success for Scotland as Gregor Townsend’s side recorded wins over Fiji, Portugal and Australia.
That win over the Wallabies will stand the Scottish players in good stead when British & Irish Lions head coach Andy Farrell makes his squad selection for the 2025 tour Down Under. There is the Six Nations Championship to be played before that happens and that tournament will of course be the final deciding factor for most players.
After an impressive November though it’s fair to say that plenty Murrayfield stand-outs put their hands up and will be in contention come selection time. Here are 14 players were expect to be in the mix and our view of their current chances:
9. Rory Darge
As is always the case, places in the back row are at a premium due to the immense competition. Darge could show his credentials as a test starter with a strong Six Nations but right now a spot amongst the replacements seems most likely. LIONS CHANCES = TEST REPLACEMENT | Getty Images
10. Ewan Ashman
Hooker and flanker are probably the two most open positions currently with Scotland, Ireland, England and Wales players all in the mix. Ashman is mobile and throws well but there are more experienced options currently ahead of him from the other nations. LIONS CHANCES = ON THE PLANE/MIDWEEK STARTER | Getty Images
11. Darcy Graham
Graham could very well find himself the most unlucky player of any of the four nations to miss out. If the Irish starting wingers and van der Merwe are locked in then you feel as if Farrell might bring along a younger player like Feyi-Waboso who could be a future Lions starter. If there is space for a fifth winger then Graham must go. LIONS CHANCES = ON THE PLANE/MIDWEEK STARTER | Getty Images
12. Jack Dempsey
An injury during the Autumn Tests won't have helped his chances but a strong Six Nations and he could just about sneak a spot in the touring squad as a back row alternative but competition is fierce. LIONS CHANCES = POTENTIALLY ON THE PLANE | Getty Images