‘Emerging’ Scotland XV Set to Play Italy U23s

Gregor Townsend is set to lead the ‘Emerging’ Scotland XV in a match against Italy Under-23s. This ‘Emerging’ Scotland squad, consisting of the nation’s top young talents, is scheduled to compete against Italy Under-23s next month at Edinburgh’s Hive Stadium. The fixture, slated for 14 December, forms part of the national academy pilot programme. This initiative commenced in September with the objective to “add increased value to the development of a selected group of promising players”. Participants in the pilot programme were chosen from Scottish Rugby’s regional academies, as well as the senior academies of Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh. The Scottish squad will receive coaching from national head coach Gregor Townsend and his accompanying staff. Head coach Townsend commented, stating: “This fixture enables us to bring our best young players together, have a week of training with national team coaches, and take on a quality international side.”