Scotland’s head coach, Gregor Townsend, has implemented a substantial 10 changes as the team prepares to confront Chile in Santiago. Jamie Ritchie has been bestowed with the co-captaincy following his 50th cap win against the US, marking an illustrious achievement for the Edinburgh man, who had previously relinquished the captaincy before the Six Nations. He is now poised to lead the team alongside Sione Tuipulotu.
The impending encounter will witness the retention of five players from the 42-7 triumph over the US, including Kyle Rowe, Kyle Steyn, and Alex Craig. Ritchie will transition to the openside to accommodate Gregor Brown on the blindside flank, while Josh Bayliss assumes the position of number eight.
Ewan Johnson will make his maiden international start, partnering Craig in the second row, with props Nathan McBeth and Will Hurd, both of whom made their debuts as replacements earlier in the tour, also earning starting roles. Additionally, Dylan Richardson returns as hooker following a commendable performance against Canada.
In the backline, Gus Warr and Ben Healy will form the half-back pairing, while Tuipulotu and Steyn will unite in the midfield, with Rowe at fullback. Jamie Dobie and Arron Reed will assume the roles of wingers, both of whom made their Test debuts against Canada.
Edinburgh hooker Patrick Harrison is poised for his Scotland debut from the bench, alongside his club colleagues Pierre Schoeman and Javan Sebastian. The forward reserves will also include Glasgow duo Max Williamson and Rory Darge, along with Adam Hastings, Stafford McDowall, and Matt Currie.
Overall, this substantial restructuring of the lineup has undoubtedly generated a sense of anticipation among fans as Scotland braces to confront Chile. The appointment of Jamie Ritchie as co-captain only serves to heighten the excitement surrounding the forthcoming match, and it will be intriguing to witness the team’s performance under the new leadership and with a revamped squad.