Steyn returns as Scotland seeks its first win against New Zealand. Image: The Offside Line.
(The Post News)– Scotland will face the New Zealand All Blacks this Saturday at Murrayfield Stadium in a match that could mark the first ever Scottish victory over the rugby giants after 32 attempts in 120 years.
The Scots arrive with renewed confidence following an emphatic 85‑0 win over the United States last weekend. Head coach Gregor Townsend has made several bold selections: wing Kyle Steyn returns to the starting XV, while top try‑scorer Duhan van der Merwe has been left out. Townsend emphasized that his side must play without fear, letting belief outweigh the weight of history.
New Zealand, under new head coach Scott Robertson, is in a period of transition. Injuries to key forwards Scott Barrett and Jordie Barrett have forced lineup changes, but the All Blacks remain a formidable unit with attacking threats from Leicester Fainga’anuku, Damian McKenzie, and a deep backline.
The All Blacks have expressed The All Blacks conveyed their honor in participating in Murrayfield’s rugby centenary celebration, deeming it a momentous event. They noted their proud history with Scotland and the recent tight contests between the two teams. “We have named the best team to reflect the challenge we know Scotland will present,” New Zealand wrote in a statement.
Scotland needs disciplined defense, solid set‑piece work, and quick counter‑attacks to have any chance of breaking the streak. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Scotland’s Rory Hutchinson and Sione Tuipulotu facing New Zealand’s experienced backs.
In the back three, Steyn, Darcy Graham, and Blair Kinghorn must handle high balls cleanly and exploit any gaps. The forward pack will also be tested, as Scotland’s scrum and breakdown efficiency must match the All Blacks’ physicality.
Last 5 Scotland vs. New Zealand Head-to-Head Results
13 Nov 2022 – Murrayfield, New Zealand 31, Scotland 23
18 Nov 2017 – Murrayfield, New Zealand 22, Scotland 17
15 Nov 2014 – Murrayfield, New Zealand 24, Scotland 16
11 Nov 2012 – Murrayfield, New Zealand 51, Scotland 22
13 Nov 2010 – Murrayfield, New Zealand 49, Scotland 3
A win would coincide with Murrayfield’s centenary celebrations, giving the result added symbolic weight. For Scotland, beating New Zealand would represent more than a single victory; it would signal a shift in world rugby dynamics.
The stadium is expected to be packed, and weather could add another layer of challenge. As kickoff approaches, many spectators are looking forward to this historic match as Scotland attempts to win their first encounter after 120 years.
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