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Scotland Coach Gregor Townsend Faces Uncertain Future After Another Fourth-Place Six Nations Finish

Despite moments of promise, Scotland's inconsistency under Townsend has led to scrutiny over his ability to take the team forward after nearly eight years in charge.

Rugby Union - Six Nations Championship - Scotland v Wales - Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, Scotland, Britain - March 8, 2025 Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend arrives at the stadium before the match REUTERS/Russell Cheyne/File Photo
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Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend during a team run at Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Edinburgh. Picture date: Friday March 7, 2025. PA Photo. See PA story RUGBYU Scotland. Photo credit should read: Jane Barlow/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: Use subject to restrictions. Editorial use only, no commercial use without prior consent from rights holder.

Overview

  • Scotland finished fourth in the Six Nations for the second consecutive year, with losses to Ireland, England, and France overshadowing wins against Wales and Italy.
  • Head coach Gregor Townsend, whose contract runs until April 2026, has stated he has no plans to step down, expressing confidence in the team's potential to improve.
  • Critics argue that Scotland's struggles with consistency and failure to deliver complete performances have become persistent issues during Townsend's tenure.
  • The Scottish Rugby Union is set to conduct a review of the Six Nations campaign, which could influence decisions about Townsend's future as head coach.
  • Franco Smith, currently coach of Glasgow Warriors, has been speculated as a potential successor, though no formal decisions have been made regarding leadership changes.