Scotland got back to winning ways in the Calcutta Cup on Saturday, however their trip to the Principality Stadium this weekend offers a different challenge.
The Scots have had a fairly quiet campaign so far in terms of injuries, but a few casualties have emerged from the mammoth England performance. Jamie Ritchie is expected to be out for a few months have his tibial plateau fracture, while fellow back rower, Jack Dempsey has also been ruled out with a ‘serious’ bicep issue. Meanwhile, Jamie Dobie’s shoulder injury he picked up in the closing stages means he’ll also have no part to play in Cardiff.
It’s a hammer blow to the Scots to lose three of their main men, but thankfully for Townsend, with one of the best squads he’s ever had in terms of depth, there are plenty of replacements waiting in the wings. Other than the injury woes, few changes are expected from the side that defeated England 31-20, however the front row did struggle in the scrum, which will need to be addressed.
As for Scotland’s opponents, they are yet to get off the mark in this year’s Championship, however they have a knack of turning it on against Townsend’s men, especially at home. It’s generally a tight affair in the Doddie Weir Cup, with six of the last eight encounters since the trophy was introduced culminating in a losing bonus point. Here’s a look at Scotland’s predicted XV for their trip to Cardiff.
13. Huw Jones
Got his customary tries against England and looked back to his best after struggling to get involved against Italy, making up the iconic 'Huwipulotu' partnership. | SNS Group
14. Kyle Steyn
Nailed on his starting spot on the wing after a Man of the Match performance. He's yet to score a try in the competition, but his defensive work has been exemplary. | SNS Group / SRU
15. Tom Jordan
Scored two of three Scotland tries against Wales at Murrayfield last year. It takes some big performances to keep Blair Kinghorn out of the team, but so far the Bristol Bears fullback has looked very assured. | SNS Group / SRU