Match build-up: 2019 Calcutta Cup

Ahead of the 2019 Test, we look back on the preparations and interviews from Scotland camp that week.

Assistant Coach Mike Blair on taking the good with the bad

Assistant Coach Mike Blair believes Scotland must take the bad with the good as they aim to address the shortcomings from Saturday’s 18-11 defeat to Wales and prepare for a Guinness Six Nations finale against England at Twickenham.

Blair explained that, although the Scots have been a disappointed with the outcome of their most recent outings, they remain resolute in their efforts to end their campaign on a high – something they will have to do without the services of back-three trio Stuart Hogg, Tommy Seymour and Blair Kinghorn who, it was confirmed today, would be absent through injury.

He said: “But it’s such a tough championship and if you play England at Twickenham the following week, you have to hold onto some of the positives to take into the next game.

“It’s also really important to look at the things that didn’t go right so we can improve for that last game.”

Mike Blair added: “We’ve not shown enough of that this championship and, with only one game left, it’s about time we did.”

In
Camp: Preparations intensify

A look inside the Scotland camp as the squad continue to prepare for the final round of the Championship at the Edinburgh training base, Oriam.

Bradbury: Up for the Cup

As Scotland’s defence of the coveted Calcutta Cup gets underway in the final round of the 2019 Six Nations, Edinburgh back-row Magnus Bradbury explained that the relentlessness of the championship necessitates a quick turnaround of focus and intent, something they’ve grasped in preparation for this weekend.

He said: “With the main guys out – particularly the back row – it’s a good opportunity for myself and the younger guys.

“We’re defending Calcutta cup which is massive for us.”

He added: “We just need to play as well as we can, try to fill these spots and take our chances.”

Twickenham: Team Run

Visiting Twickenham on the eve of the game for a final session ahead of the Scotland v England fixture that all fans across Scotland and England would be tuning in for the following day.

Stuart
McInally says that the team are ready and desperate to get out and give
Scotland fans something to cheer about.

Join Scotland fans #AsOne on Facebook and YouTube this Friday as Scottish Rugby will replay both Calcutta Cup fixtures as-live at 6pm and 8pm.