Scotland's national rugby team enters the 2025 Six Nations tournament with renewed vigor and confidence, largely driven by co-captain Finn Russell. The Scots are poised to finally break a long-standing 26-year drought since their last significant finish at the top of European rugby’s elite competition, being last crowned Five Nations champions back in 1999. Russell, who leads the charge, firmly believes the team possesses the right mentality to challenge for the title this year.
"I think we’ve come in with some expectations and with the group we’ve got, I think it’s quite right to have those expectations," Russell stated. His optimism stems from the experiences and performance levels seen within the squad over the past few years, bolstered by key victories against formidable opponents.
Under the guidance of head coach Gregor Townsend, Russell emphasizes the importance of a championship mindset. This year, Scotland is entering the tournament with aspirations mixed with the realization of the challenges ahead, starting with their first match against Italy on February 2 at Murrayfield.
The squad has acknowledged the strength of the Italian team, which Russell considers to be the best he has faced during his 11-year international career. "For me, it’s the best, strongest Italian team I’ve faced," he remarked, highlighting the respect he holds for their abilities, particularly after facing disappointment just last year during their encounter. Scotland's ability to adapt to Italy’s potentially surprising tactics will be pivotal for their success.
Russell’s optimism isn’t baseless; it's amplified by recent victories and experiences among the players at the club level. Several key members of the Scottish squad have participated in finals or lifted trophies recently, contributing to building the team’s self-belief and winning mentality. "I think we've come in with this real good mindset this tournament, which is different than before," Russell noted, reflecting on how past disappointments have paved the way for this mental shift.
His sentiments are echoed throughout the camp as the team sensations like Glasgow and Bath have enjoyed success, wrapping the players' perspectives with invaluable experience. Russell highlights how more than half the team have faced off in high-stakes matches, which is instrumental when embarking on such tournaments. "A lot of boys hadn’t won anything before, but now we’ve got half the squad that's won stuff," he added.
Focusing on the upcoming match against Italy, Russell says the first few games are critically important, as success can rapidly change the narrative around their campaign. "If you’re slow to start then you’re up against it – you’re probably not going to win it," he advised, reiterate the necessity for Scotland to assert themselves right from the outset.
Russell’s form has been another positive factor contributing to the team’s enthusiasm. Leading Bath currently sitting on top of the Gallagher Premiership, he is determined to maintain his level of performance. "I'm happy with how I'm playing. I think my game management has been really good," he remarked, noting improved decision-making on the field which complements his natural flair.
Scotland’s depth has also been acknowledged, with Russell showing confidence even when faced with challenges, such as the injury of fellow co-captain Sione Tuipulotu. "We've got 707 Test caps across the squad, including eight players with more than fifty appearances. This experience is going to be key,” said Russell. He emphasized the team’s unity and the fact they are managed to forge strong connections with new team members as the camp welcomes uncapped players.
Looking back on his own achievements, Russell admits the upcoming match against Italy will be bittersweet as he approaches 83 caps—placing him above head coach Townsend's total. “It’ll be nice going ahead of Gregor, but it’s not my main goal. The bigger goal is winning the tournament,” he emphasized, underscoring the commitment to team success over individual accolades.
With the goal of achieving something meaningful this time, Russell’s leadership, combined with the squad's fresh mentality and experiences, presents Scotland with their best opportunity to make their mark on the Six Nations. The upcoming match against Italy will be the first step on their road to reclaiming their place among rugby's elite, and as Russell noted, "We've just got to control what we can and stay true to what we’re trying to achieve here." Only time will tell if this will finally be the year Scotland breaks through.