Making a positive start to their latest Six Nations campaign will be essential for Scotland if they are to achieve success in the competition’s current format for the first time.
Not since the final Five Nations in 1999 has a Scottish side claimed success as Jim Telfer’s men secured an opening day home win against Wales before edging out England on points difference to top the table after winning three of their four fixtures.
Since the introduction of Italy into the following year’s competition, Scotland are yet to experience Six Nations glory - but there are some hopes they can see off the challenges of pre-tournament favourites France and Ireland to lift the famous championship trophy.
With just days to go until Scotland face Italy at Murrayfield and get their bid for success underway, we take a look back at how they have fared in their opening fixtures since the first Six Nations was held in 2000.
13. 2012: Scotland 6-13 England
The boot of Owen Farrell condemned Scotland to a home defeat in their Calcutta Cup clash with England. | SNS Group 0141 221 3602
14. 2013: England 38-18 Scotland
Farrell was at it once again 12 months later with three conversations and four penalties in a 38-18 win for England. | SNS Group/SRU
15. 2014: Ireland 28-6 Scotland
Greig Laidlaw scored two penalties - but it was the Irish that came out on top in Dublin. | SNS Group / SRU
16. 2015: France 15-8 Scotland
Scotland put in a brave performance in Paris but the boot of Camille Lopez condemned them to another defeat against France. | SNS Group/SRU