Scotland Rugby has named a 37-player squad for the November 2026 Nations Championship, with captain Sione Tuipulotu, fly-half Finn Russell and fullback Blair Kinghorn leading Gregor Townsend's attempt to reach the inaugural championship final.

The squad, announced Oct. 26, features 36 capped internationals and one uncapped player, Newcastle back-row forward Ollie Leatherbarrow.

Scotland enters November second in the Northern Hemisphere standings with 11 championship points, just one behind France. After defeating Argentina and Fiji during the July window, Townsend's side has three home fixtures remaining to overtake the French and secure a place in the Grand Final.

The first is against New Zealand on Saturday, Nov. 7, at Scottish Gas Murrayfield in Edinburgh.

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With Russell directing the attack, Tuipulotu and Huw Jones offering an established midfield combination, and a back row built around Rory Darge and Jack Dempsey, Scotland has selected a squad capable of competing with the tournament's leading teams.

Here is Scotland's complete November roster, FloRugby's predicted starting XV against the All Blacks, the major selection questions and the schedule for the final three regular-season rounds.

Full Scotland Rugby Nations Championship Squad For 2026

Townsend's 37-player squad contains 21 forwards and 16 backs. The following roster reflects Scotland's Oct. 26 announcement. Club affiliations are listed alongside each player.

Scotland Props (6)

• Zander Fagerson — Glasgow Warriors
• Will Hurd — Leicester Tigers
• Nathan McBeth — Glasgow Warriors
• Elliot Millar Mills — Northampton Saints
• Pierre Schoeman — Edinburgh Rugby
• Rory Sutherland — Glasgow Warriors

Scotland Hookers (3)

• Ewan Ashman — Edinburgh Rugby
• Gregor Hiddleston — Glasgow Warriors
• Seb Stephen — Edinburgh Rugby

Scotland Locks (4)

• Scott Cummings — Glasgow Warriors
• Alex Craig — Glasgow Warriors
• Jonny Gray — Union Bordeaux Bègles
• Max Williamson — Glasgow Warriors

Scotland Back-Row Forwards (8)

• Josh Bayliss — Bath Rugby
• Gregor Brown — Glasgow Warriors
• Rory Darge — Glasgow Warriors
• Jack Dempsey — Glasgow Warriors
• Matt Fagerson — Glasgow Warriors
• Ollie Leatherbarrow — Newcastle Red Bulls
• Liam McConnell — Edinburgh Rugby
• Jamie Ritchie — Perpignan

Leatherbarrow is the only uncapped player in the squad announced Oct. 26.

Scotland Scrum-Halves (3)

• Jamie Dobie — Glasgow Warriors
• George Horne — Glasgow Warriors
• Ben White — RC Toulon

Scotland Fly-Halves (2)

• Fergus Burke — Saracens
• Finn Russell — Bath Rugby

Scotland Centers (5)

• Rory Hutchinson — Northampton Saints
• Huw Jones — Glasgow Warriors
• Tom Jordan — Bristol Bears
• Stafford McDowall — Glasgow Warriors
• Sione Tuipulotu — Glasgow Warriors (captain)

Scotland Back-Three Players (6)

• Darcy Graham — Edinburgh Rugby
• Blair Kinghorn — Stade Toulousain
• Kyle Rowe — Glasgow Warriors
• Ollie Smith — Glasgow Warriors
• Kyle Steyn — Glasgow Warriors
• Duhan van der Merwe — Edinburgh Rugby

Total: 37 players — 21 forwards and 16 backs.

The selection brings together Scotland's leading domestic-based internationals and experienced players competing in England and France.

Predicted Scotland Starting XV Vs. New Zealand: Nov. 7, 2026

Scotland opens the November Nations Championship against New Zealand at Scottish Gas Murrayfield on Saturday, Nov. 7.

Kickoff is scheduled for 9:10 a.m. ET.

The following is FloRugby's editorial prediction, not an official Scotland team announcement.

Predicted Scotland Starting XV

1. Pierre Schoeman — Loosehead prop — Edinburgh Rugby
2. Ewan Ashman — Hooker — Edinburgh Rugby
3. Zander Fagerson — Tighthead prop — Glasgow Warriors
4. Scott Cummings — Lock — Glasgow Warriors
5. Jonny Gray — Lock — Union Bordeaux Bègles
6. Matt Fagerson — Blindside flanker — Glasgow Warriors
7. Rory Darge — Openside flanker — Glasgow Warriors
8. Jack Dempsey — No. 8 — Glasgow Warriors
9. Ben White — Scrum-half — RC Toulon
10. Finn Russell — Fly-half — Bath Rugby
11. Duhan van der Merwe — Left wing — Edinburgh Rugby
12. Sione Tuipulotu — Inside center, captain — Glasgow Warriors
13. Huw Jones — Outside center — Glasgow Warriors
14. Darcy Graham — Right wing — Edinburgh Rugby
15. Blair Kinghorn — Fullback — Stade Toulousain

Predicted Scotland Replacements (16–23)

• Gregor Hiddleston — Hooker — Glasgow Warriors
• Rory Sutherland — Loosehead prop — Glasgow Warriors
• Elliot Millar Mills — Tighthead prop — Northampton Saints
• Max Williamson — Lock — Glasgow Warriors
• Jamie Ritchie — Back-row forward — Perpignan
• George Horne — Scrum-half — Glasgow Warriors
• Fergus Burke — Fly-half — Saracens
• Kyle Steyn — Wing/utility back — Glasgow Warriors

This prediction uses a conventional five-forward, three-back replacement bench.

Why This Scotland Starting XV Makes Sense

Scotland's strongest attacking combination begins with Russell at fly-half and Tuipulotu and Jones in midfield. The trio gives Townsend an experienced decision-making structure, with Russell controlling territory and tempo while the centers create opportunities through direct carrying, distribution and support lines.

White is the predicted scrum-half because of his established partnership with Russell and his ability to manage the kicking game. George Horne offers a different threat from the bench, particularly when Scotland wants to increase the pace around the breakdown.

The back row presents a more difficult selection decision. Darge is the natural openside option, Dempsey provides carrying power at No. 8, and Matt Fagerson offers the work rate and defensive reliability required against New Zealand. That leaves Jamie Ritchie and Gregor Brown competing for opportunities, with Ritchie predicted to provide experience from the bench.

In the back three, Kinghorn's ability to contribute as a second playmaker makes him the preferred fullback. Graham offers acceleration and finishing ability, while van der Merwe brings power on the opposite wing. Steyn is a credible starting alternative because of his defensive work and aerial ability.

The prediction also assumes Scotland's established internationals remain available. Townsend could adjust the second row, back row or back three depending on training performances, fitness and the tactical approach he chooses against the All Blacks.

Who Is In Scotland's Nations Championship Squad? Biggest Selection Takeaways

Sione Tuipulotu Leads Scotland's Championship Challenge

Tuipulotu captains Scotland for the November campaign and remains central to Townsend's attacking plans.

The Glasgow Warriors center provides more than a physical presence at inside center. His passing, carrying and ability to create space for teammates make him an important link between Russell and Scotland's outside backs.

His partnership with Huw Jones has become one of Scotland's most recognizable attacking combinations.

Against New Zealand, Scotland will need its midfield to manage defensive pressure without sacrificing attacking ambition. Tuipulotu's leadership will be particularly important when Scotland is forced to defend for extended periods or build momentum from limited possession.

Finn Russell Remains Scotland's Key Playmaker

Russell is one of the most influential players in the squad.

The Bath Rugby fly-half gives Scotland a range of attacking options, from tactical kicking and long passing to short attacking plays around the defensive line.

His ability to recognize space and change Scotland's attacking shape will be crucial against New Zealand.

However, Russell's influence depends on the quality of possession delivered by the forwards and the support he receives from the players around him.

Scotland's challenge is to give its fly-half enough front-foot ball to dictate the contest.

Ollie Leatherbarrow Earns His First Scotland Call-Up

Leatherbarrow is the only uncapped player in the 37-man group. The Newcastle Red Bulls back-row forward adds another option to an already competitive position group.

His inclusion suggests Townsend is continuing to assess Scotland's next generation of forwards while retaining an experienced core for the championship run-in. Leatherbarrow faces significant competition from Darge, Dempsey, the Fagerson brothers, Ritchie, Brown, Bayliss and McConnell.

A first call-up does not guarantee a Test debut, but his selection gives him an opportunity to train alongside established internationals and demonstrate his readiness for the next level.

Scotland Has Depth Across Its Backline

The squad's backline options give Townsend considerable flexibility. At scrum-half, White, Horne and Dobie offer different strengths. Russell is the established fly-half, while Burke provides another specialist option. Jordan can also contribute as a playmaker.

In midfield, Tuipulotu and Jones are the likely first-choice pairing, but McDowall, Hutchinson and Jordan give Townsend alternatives. The back three is particularly competitive, with Kinghorn, Graham, van der Merwe, Steyn, Rowe and Smith all included.

That depth could become valuable across three November matches in successive weekends.

Scotland Has Selected Experience For A Title Race

Scotland enters November with a realistic opportunity to reach the Nations Championship Grand Final. That helps explain the emphasis on established combinations.

The squad includes familiar Glasgow Warriors partnerships in the pack and midfield, experienced Edinburgh players and internationals based in England and France. Rather than rebuilding, Townsend has selected a group designed to compete immediately while retaining a limited number of development opportunities.

Which Rugby Clubs Have The Most Players In Scotland's Squad?

Glasgow Warriors provides the largest share of Scotland's 37-player squad.

The club-by-club breakdown is:

• Glasgow Warriors: 18 players
• Edinburgh Rugby: 6 players
• Bath Rugby: 2 players
• Northampton Saints: 2 players
• Leicester Tigers: 1 player
• Newcastle Red Bulls: 1 player
• Union Bordeaux Bègles: 1 player
• Perpignan: 1 player
• RC Toulon: 1 player
• Saracens: 1 player
• Bristol Bears: 1 player
• Stade Toulousain: 1 player

Total: 35 players accounted for in the breakdown above.

Two additional Glasgow Warriors players in the roster bring the club's total to 20, and the overall squad total to 37.

Glasgow's substantial representation is important because many of Scotland's likely starters already play together at club level. The Glasgow contingent includes Zander Fagerson, Scott Cummings, Rory Darge, Jack Dempsey, Matt Fagerson, Huw Jones and captain Sione Tuipulotu.

Edinburgh contributes established internationals including Schoeman, Ashman, Graham and van der Merwe. Scotland's overseas players bring experience from the Gallagher PREM and French Top 14.

American fans can follow Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Rugby in the United Rugby Championship on FloRugby, along with selected European club competitions featuring Scotland internationals.

5 Scotland Players To Watch In The Nations Championship

1. Finn Russell — Fly-Half

Russell is Scotland's primary attacking organizer. His tactical kicking, distribution and willingness to attack space can change a match quickly. Against New Zealand, Australia and Japan, Scotland will need Russell to balance attacking ambition with territorial control.

His decision-making could determine whether Scotland converts its promising championship position into a final appearance.

2. Sione Tuipulotu — Center And Captain

Tuipulotu combines leadership with attacking influence. His ability to carry into contact, draw defenders and release teammates makes him central to Scotland's midfield. He also provides a physical presence in defense.

As captain, Tuipulotu will be responsible for helping Scotland manage difficult periods against three different styles of opposition.

3. Blair Kinghorn — Fullback

Kinghorn's versatility gives Scotland another attacking dimension. The Toulouse fullback can join the line as an additional distributor, attack space from deep and contribute to Scotland's kicking game.

His experience in French club rugby adds to the squad's international depth. Kinghorn's ability to connect with Russell and Scotland's outside backs could be especially important against the All Blacks.

4. Duhan van der Merwe — Wing

Van der Merwe is one of Scotland's most dangerous ball carriers. His size, power and finishing ability make him a threat when Scotland creates opportunities near the touchline. The Edinburgh winger can also turn limited attacking possession into significant territory.

Scotland will want to bring him into the game rather than leave him isolated on the wing.

5. Rory Darge — Flanker

Darge is a key figure in Scotland's defensive and breakdown strategy. His work over the ball, tackling and support play help Scotland compete for possession against more physically imposing opponents.

The Glasgow Warriors flanker will have a demanding role against New Zealand and Australia. His effectiveness at the breakdown could be one of the deciding factors in Scotland's November campaign.

Emerging player to monitor: Ollie Leatherbarrow. The uncapped Newcastle back-row forward has earned a place in the squad and could become an important depth option, although his Test debut is not guaranteed.

Scotland Nations Championship Injuries, Absences And Selection Questions

Scotland's Oct. 26 squad announcement provides the starting point for assessing availability. The 37-player group contains an experienced core, but Townsend still faces several meaningful selection decisions.

The first is at scrum-half.

White offers experience and game management, Horne brings pace and attacking instinct, and Dobie provides another option. The second is the back row, where Darge, Dempsey, Matt Fagerson, Ritchie and Brown are competing for starting and replacement positions.

Scotland also has choices at lock, with Cummings, Gray, Craig and Williamson in the squad. The back three presents another difficult decision. Kinghorn is a strong candidate at fullback, but Rowe and Smith provide alternatives. Graham, van der Merwe and Steyn compete for the wing positions.

At center, the Tuipulotu-Jones combination is the leading option, although McDowall, Hutchinson and Jordan give Townsend flexibility.

Any late injuries, withdrawals or changes in availability could alter the final matchday 23. No unverified injury or absence should be treated as confirmed.

How Scotland Reached Second Place In The Nations Championship Standings

Scotland enters the November window second in the Northern Hemisphere standings with 11 championship points. Townsend's side won two of its three July matches.

Scotland's July 2026 Nations Championship Results

• July 4: Scotland 47, Argentina 38
• July 11: South Africa 42, Scotland 28
• July 18: Scotland 33, Fiji 17

Scotland opened with an attacking victory over Argentina before losing to South Africa. The team responded with a 16-point win against Fiji to finish the July window with a 2–1 record.

Northern Hemisphere Standings Entering November

1. France: 12 points
2. Scotland: 11 points
3. England: 10 points
4. Ireland: 10 points
5. Wales: 5 points
6. Italy: 0 points

Scotland has a plus-11 points difference through its first three matches.

The July championship points carry forward into November, making every result and bonus point important. With France just one point ahead, Scotland has a genuine opportunity to finish first in the Northern Hemisphere.

However, England and Ireland are also within striking distance.

Scotland's November 2026 Nations Championship Schedule

Scotland plays all three November regular-season fixtures at Scottish Gas Murrayfield in Edinburgh.

Scotland Vs. New Zealand

• Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026
• Venue: Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Edinburgh
• Kickoff: 9:10 a.m. ET

The All Blacks present Scotland's toughest opening challenge.

A victory would provide a significant boost to Scotland's championship ambitions and put pressure on France.

Scotland Vs. Australia

• Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026
• Venue: Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Edinburgh
• Kickoff: 10:10 a.m. ET

Australia offers another demanding test.

Scotland will need to manage the transition from the New Zealand match while maintaining momentum in the standings.

Scotland Vs. Japan

• Saturday, Nov. 21, 2026
• Venue: Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Edinburgh
• Kickoff: 9:10 a.m. ET

Japan is Scotland's final regular-season opponent.

Depending on results elsewhere, the match could have major implications for Scotland's final Northern Hemisphere ranking. Scotland will then participate in Finals Weekend at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, from Nov. 27–29.

Its opponent will be determined by the final standings.

Can Scotland Reach The 2026 Nations Championship Grand Final?

Yes. Scotland enters November only one championship point behind France and remains firmly in contention. The inaugural Nations Championship features 12 teams divided into Northern and Southern Hemisphere groups.

Each team plays six regular-season matches against opponents from the opposite hemisphere. Three matches took place in July, and the remaining three are scheduled for November.

Teams earn four championship points for a win, two for a draw, and bonus points for scoring four tries or losing by seven points or fewer. The first-place team in each hemisphere advances directly to the Grand Final. There are no semifinals.

The championship match is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 29, 2026, at 11:40 a.m. ET, at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.

The other 10 teams compete in placement matches during Finals Weekend.

Scotland's path is straightforward in principle: earn more championship points than France, England, Ireland and the other Northern Hemisphere teams over the six regular-season rounds. 

The challenge is the quality of the opposition.

New Zealand and Australia will test Scotland's ability to compete with established Southern Hemisphere powers, while Japan presents a different tactical challenge in the final round. Scotland cannot control results elsewhere, but three strong November performances would put Townsend's team in a competitive position.

How To Watch Scotland In The 2026 Nations Championship In The USA

RugbyPass TV is the confirmed U.S. streaming destination for the 2026 Nations Championship. American fans can follow Scotland's November matches against New Zealand, Australia and Japan through RugbyPass TV.

FloRugby does not hold the live U.S. rights to the Nations Championship.

However, FloRugby provides extensive coverage of professional club rugby, including competitions featuring Scotland's leading internationals.

Watch Scotland Rugby Stars On FloRugby

FloRugby streams the United Rugby Championship, which features Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Rugby.

Fans can follow Scotland internationals such as Tuipulotu, Jones, Darge, Dempsey, Graham and van der Merwe throughout the club season.

FloRugby's rugby coverage also includes:

• Investec Champions Cup
• EPCR Challenge Cup
• Gallagher PREM
• French Top 14
• Japan Rugby League One

These competitions provide opportunities to follow Scotland's overseas-based players, including Russell at Bath, Kinghorn at Toulouse and White at Toulon.

Watch Scotland's club rugby stars on FloRugby and the FloSports app.

Can I Watch Rugby All Year On FloRugby?

Yes. FloRugby offers live and on-demand rugby throughout the year with a subscription.

Fans can follow major club competitions and international rugby on FloRugby and the FloSports app. Match availability varies by region and broadcast rights.

What Rugby Competitions Can I Watch On FloRugby?

FloRugby streams the United Rugby Championship, Gallagher PREM, Top 14, Investec Champions Cup, EPCR Challenge Cup and more.

Visit the FloRugby watch schedule to explore upcoming events. Availability varies by location and competition rights.

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FloRugby provides rugby news, schedules, results, rankings and analysis throughout the season.

Visit FloRugby.com for the latest coverage from Europe's leading club competitions and beyond.

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