Sione Tuipulotu returns to captaincy duties as Scotland unveiled a 37-player squad for their November Nations Championship home fixtures. The Glasgow Warriors centre, who has led the national side in 15 of his 41 caps, anchors a familiar midfield lineup that includes Huw Jones, Rory Hutchinson, and Stafford McDowall. Scotland prepares to host New Zealand on November 7, Australia on November 15, and Japan on November 21 at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, with the competition concluding at Twickenham based on final hemisphere standings.
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The selection marks a significant moment for Ollie Leatherbarrow, who enters the group as an uncapped player. His inclusion adds depth to a versatile back-three featuring Kyle Steyn, Duhan van der Merwe, Kyle Rowe, Blair Kinghorn, and Darcy Graham, many of whom offer positional flexibility. In the half-backs, Finn Russell, Tom Jordan, and Fergus Burke provide stand-off options, while scrum-halves Jamie Dobie, Ben White, and George Horne round out the engine room.
Scotland’s front row strategy features three hookers, including recent debutant Seb Stephen, alongside Ewan Ashman and Gregor Hiddleston. Stephen made his international debut during July’s Nations Championship match against Fiji, and his continued selection signals confidence in his ability to handle high-pressure international fixtures. As the team prepares for a demanding three-week home run, the balance between experienced leaders and emerging talent like Leatherbarrow will be critical to securing a strong finish to the hemisphere campaign.
Source: Scottish Rugby
