By Jamie Fairley

With the six nations right around the corner, we take a look at Scotland’s chances in the tournament, key players and noticeable absentees in an aim to answer the question on everyone's mind, is this Scotland’s year?

Following a disappointing run of games in last year's competition with shock results including defeat away to Italy, France and Ireland. Scotland will look to use last year's form as motivation to fire on and try to win the ever coveted Six Nations trophy for the first time.

A key player to look at ahead of Scotland's opening match against Italy on Saturday would be star winger Van Der Merwe. Van Der Merwe has only been playing for the thistles since 2020 however his 30 tries in just 44 caps make him the top try scorer of all time for the country and there be no doubt of a fire in his belly looking to better this record and propel his name into superstar status.

Duhan Van De Merwe playing for Scotland (David Rogers via Gettyimages)

Another player to look out for is young star Euan Ferrie who has received his first call up to the senior squad as he aims to make a first cap on one of the biggest stages. Ferrie has starred for the Glasgow Warriors seven times this season making a name for himself on the big stage playing both second and back row in a solid Glasgow Warriors side.

Experienced veteran and potential captain for the tournament Finn Russel has also been named in the squad as he aims to continue his Scotland journey. He has amassed a whopping 65 caps in the tournament which puts him third in the all-time list of appearances. He has high hopes of achieving Six Nations glory as captain of his country Russel is certainly one to watch in the coming months.

Scotland Veteran Finn Russel (Patrick Khachfe via Gettyimages)

Scotland will be without captain Sione Tuipulotu after he suffered a torn pectoral muscle while training with his own team Glasgow Warriors. Co-captains Finn Russel and Rory Darge will take leadership responsibilities for the competition.

The Scots open their tournament on Saturday against Italy who sit 10th in the world rankings coming into the tournament on the back of some decent form defeating Samoa, Tonga and Japan. Yet, facing heavy defeats from Argentina and New Zealand losing 29-11 in their last match before the competition. Scotland should look to dismiss Italy and get the run off to winning ways.

Scotland currently sit priced at 7/1 according to numerous bookmakers and have a predicted 12.5% chance of winning the full thing. With all odds stacked against the Scots it will be interesting to see how they handle the pressure of a nation desperate for glory.

The Six Nations loom as Scotland ‘try’ for glory