Gregor Townsend has dismissed reports linking him with a move to Newcastle Falcons after the 2027 Rugby World Cup, labelling the speculation as an attempt to disrupt Scotland's preparations for the Six Nations. The 52-year-old, who took on a consultancy role with Red Bull-owned Newcastle last year, was reported to be set to take charge of the Premiership club when his Scotland contract expires after the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Speaking at a press conference in Edinburgh on Thursday after naming his team to face Italy, Townsend said: 'It's pure speculation. I've not signed a contract beyond the World Cup with anybody, so it's a story that I think is being put out there to try to disrupt ahead of this game or next week's game against England.' He added that his focus remains solely on the Scotland team.
Townsend has made bold selection calls for Saturday's clash in Rome, dropping first-choice backs Blair Kinghorn, Duhan van der Merwe, and Darcy Graham. Tom Jordan starts at full-back, with Jamie Dobie and Kyle Steyn on the wings. Townsend cited form and competition as reasons for the changes, saying: 'Blair, Duhan and Darcy have had some terrific games for us... but there's competition in that back-three area.'
Nine of the starting XV featured in Scotland's 31-29 defeat in Rome in March 2024, a result Townsend believes will 'sharpen the minds' of his players. He acknowledged Italy's improvement, noting their victory over Australia in November and their cohesive backline.
In other Six Nations news, Wales have named Louis Rees-Zammit at full-back for their match against England. The 25-year-old, who returned to rugby after an 18-month NFL stint, will make only his fourth start at full-back in 36 Tests. Wales head coach Steve Tandy said: 'Wales v England is always a special game... I want to see us get out and really attack the game on Saturday.'
