After yet another glorious defeat to New Zealand, next up for the Scots is the in-form Pumas.
The All Blacks emerged 25-17 victors at Murrayfield on Saturday in a match that Scotland majorly had the upper hand in, but it was the same old story in the end. As Gregor Townsend and his team try and get back to winning ways, Felipe Contepomi’s Argentina await.
The fitness of Finn Russell has been cause for concern for Scotland fans as he hobbled off in the closing stages against New Zealand. Townsend identified at the time that it was an ankle problem and that Russell didn’t think it was ‘too serious’ however whether he’ll be fit for Saturday is still unknown.
Zander Fagerson is still touch and go in terms of his fitness and was a huge miss for the All Blacks clash. Townsend said it was too early for the tighthead to come back last weekend but that he would play a part in the rest of the Autumn Series. In further squad updates, Rory Sutherland, Arron Reed and Murphy Walker have dropped out, while Leicester’s Will Hurd and Glasgow’s Jamie Bhatti have been called up.
Argentina are one of only two International teams to have beaten the All Blacks this season and will go into the match full of confidence having just thumped Wales 52-28 in Cardiff. Gregor Townsend recently said that the modern game as ‘gone aerial’ and expects Argentina to take full advantage of that. With that in mind, here’s how we think Scotland will set up in their Murrayfield clash on Saturday against the Pumas:
9. Ben White
Not at his best against the All Blacks and perhaps Jamie Dobie can consider himself unlucky. However, a more open game against Argentina will better suit the Toulon man. | SNS Group / SRU
10. Finn Russell
Scotland fans will be hoping that no news is good news in terms of his fitness. He said his ankle injury wasn't too serious so hopefully that'll be the case. | SNS Group
11. Duhan Van Der Merwe
Dropped for the New Zealand match and will be back with a point to prove. His finishing ability could be the difference against the Pumas. | SNS Group / SRU
12. Sione Tuipulotu
The Aussie-born centre was another visibly distraught after the All Blacks defeat. It was a real captain's performance last time around. | SNS Group