Scotland's New Line-Up: Townsend's Bold Moves for Six Nations

Scotland's coach Gregor Townsend makes significant changes to the rugby team's line-up for their Six Nations opener against Italy. Regular fullback Blair Kinghorn and top scorers were omitted, with new players like Tom Jordan and Jamie Dobie stepping in. Several players return from injury, signaling a fresh strategy.

Scotland's head rugby coach, Gregor Townsend, has announced a surprising revamp of the team's starting line-up for their Six Nations clash against Italy, taking place in Rome on Saturday. Townsend has opted to leave out seasoned fullback Blair Kinghorn and the team's leading try-scorers in favor of a new strategy.

Blair Kinghorn is replaced by Tom Jordan at fullback, and Scotland's record try-scorer, Duhan van der Merwe, is also absent from the starting team. Instead, Jamie Dobie has been given his first start in the Six Nations, and Kyle Steyn will cover the wings alongside Dobie. The injured players Ewan Ashman, Jack Dempsey, and Jamie Dobie have all made a timely recovery and will feature in the line-up.

Meanwhile, center Huw Jones returns to the national team after rehabilitating from an Achilles tendon surgery, partnering with captain Sione Tuipulotu for their 18th test match played together. Prop forward Zander Fagerson and Scott Cummings also make a comeback, marking their return to the Six Nations after injury setbacks. This new line-up prominently features Glasgow Warriors players, with nine in the starting line-up and five on the bench.

(With inputs from agencies.)