Scotland's Gregor Townsend backs 19-year-old Freddy Douglas for Autumn series
- Gregor Townsend has included 19-year-old Freddy Douglas in the Scotland squad for the Autumn Nations series, despite him not yet playing for Edinburgh.
- Douglas has impressed coaches with his performances in A matches and with the Scotland under-20 team, showcasing his strengths in turnover situations.
- The selection highlights the potential for youth in the squad, as Townsend aims to provide opportunities for players who demonstrate talent at various levels.
In the lead-up to the Autumn Nations series in October 2024, Scotland rugby coach Gregor Townsend has announced the inclusion of 19-year-old openside flanker Freddy Douglas in the national squad. Although Douglas has not yet made his debut for Edinburgh, his performances in A matches and the under-20 team have caught the attention of the coaching staff, prompting Townsend to take a chance on the young talent. Douglas earned recognition for his ability to win turnovers, recording the most in the under-20 Six Nations and impressing during training sessions with seasoned players. Townsend expressed confidence in Douglas’s potential to succeed at a higher level, comparing him to Rory Darge, a player who similarly impressed the coaching staff prior to establishing himself in the team. The selection serves as an indicator of Townsend’s commitment to fostering younger players who display exceptional skills and an aggressive playing style amid the pressures of international competition. Additionally, the squad features Tom Jordan, a New Zealand-born player who has fulfilled the five-year residency requirement. Townsend has ensured that the selection process remains competitive, having omitted notable players like Johnny Matthews and the Gray brothers in favor of those who have performed exceptionally in recent matches. The inclusion of younger players like Douglas highlights Scotland's approach of blending experienced athletes with fresh talent, suggesting a long-term vision for the team’s growth and performance in international rugby competitions.