Sports Writer Tom English Discusses Scotland’s Rugby Prospects Against South Africa

Following Scotland’s record-breaking victory against Fiji and with an upcoming match against South Africa, chief sportswriter Tom English addressed questions submitted by readers. Reader Steve inquired about the perceived lack of recognition for Adam Hastings’ outstanding performance against Fiji, stating his personal view that Hastings played an incredible game. Steve asked if there was a realistic possibility of Hastings being selected ahead of Finn Russell, and if not, the reasons why. Tom English responded by acknowledging Hastings’ strong showing, noting that “we praised him on our radio coverage.” English highlighted Hastings’ inventiveness, effective kicking, and his role in guiding Scotland through a challenging period, adding, “It was great to see him back.” Regarding Hastings’ potential selection over Finn Russell, English stated, “I would say no chance.” He explained that “Russell is just that bit better at most things” and “He’s playing brilliantly as well.” English characterized the situation as “a nice problem to have, as they say,” stressing the need to field “your heaviest hitters against the Boks,” which, for him, means Russell’s return to the lineup. English then commented on the possibility of Hastings securing a place on the bench. He pointed out that Tom Jordan, who also performed “excellent in his time on the pitch,” offers versatility by covering positions 10, the midfield, and 15, and could also play wing. English concluded that Jordan’s versatility “should guarantee his place in the 23,” suggesting that despite Hastings’ strong performance against Fiji, “Adam might miss out in that scenario.” Reader Patrick posed a question concerning the importance of a victory over the Boks for “Toony”, asking whether a win was essential or if an improved performance compared to past results against the Boks would suffice. Tom English replied that “it would never be fair to describe Scotland beating South Africa as essential” because “it happens so rarely and, frankly, South Africa are way better.” English suggested that a reasonable expectation for Scotland is to “fire lots of shots and make a brilliant game of it,” a feat they “categorically didn’t do at the World Cup.” He recalled that “The Boks did an absolute number on them,” with Scotland’s attacking game remaining stagnant, and noted that “The scoreline didn’t reflect their superiority on the day.” Therefore, English advocated for “a big, physical performance, some tries, a game that goes close to the wire.” He expressed his belief that “Scotland will not win,” but emphasized their need to “give the Boks a scare.”