Scotland's Autumn Tests: Key Questions for November 2024 Matches
- Scotland begins their Autumn Nations Series against Fiji on Saturday and will face South Africa, Portugal, and Australia in subsequent matches.
- Gregor Townsend is tasked with addressing key team dynamics, including finding a replacement for veteran fly half Finn Russell.
- The team must strategically adapt as Russell, who recently turned 32, may not be able to maintain his previous level of play much longer.
Scotland, as part of the Autumn Nations Series, is set to begin their campaign against Fiji on Saturday evening, marking the start of a challenging month for the national rugby team. Following this opener, the team will face renowned rugby nations, including the formidable South African Springboks, an emergent Portugal team, and the historically strong Australian Wallabies at Murrayfield over the next three weekends. A significant concern for the team's coach, Gregor Townsend, is planning for life without veteran fly half Finn Russell, who recently turned 32 and faces an uncertain international future. Despite Russell's insistence on remaining focused on the upcoming World Cup, concerns about his longevity in international play are growing, especially given that he has more rugby behind him than ahead. In his presence, Adam Hastings has emerged as Russell's likely successor at fly half, thrusting him into a pivotal role as the team seeks to navigate the challenges ahead.