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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Stuart Bathgate

Scotland player ratings as Duhan van der Merwe shines in Calcutta Cup triumph

Stuart Hogg Playing his first game of 2023, the full-back nearly made a try from one of his signature counter-attacking runs and was solid in defence as well. 7 out of 10

Kyle Steyn Another impressive outing for the Glasgow captain, who was sound in defence and threatening in attack. A Russell kick to the corner was just too high for him to gather and score from. 8

Huw Jones Started off Scotland’s first try with an incisive break,  and finished it off too after a kick through from Glasgow team-mate Tuipulotu. 7

Sione Tuipulotu Put in a brilliant low kick for Jones’ try and had a solid defensive performance. 8

Duhan van der Merwe The man of the match scored one of the great Calcutta Cup tries and got the winner late in the game. His defence remains a work in progress but he is a joy to watch. 8

Finn Russell Got the odd thing wrong by a split second but pulled off some inspired passes that in the end made the difference between the teams. 8

Ben White A fine bit of quick thinking gave the scrum-half a solo try, and he also provided some efficient service to his backs. 7

Pierre Schoeman The loosehead was an important ball-carrier early on and had an important charge to the line in the build-up to Jones’ try. 7

George Turner His throwing-in at the lineout gave his team the platform that produced the first try, and he put in some impressive defensive work too. 7

WP Nel The veteran Edinburgh prop got the better of his opposite man at times in the set scrum and looked lively in the loose as well. 7

Richie Gray The rejuvenated Warriors lock popped up as vital link for Van der Merwe’s second try. 7

Grant Gilchrist Got through a ton of unglamorous work as usual as England’s pack threatened to take control. 7

Jamie Ritchie The captain popped up at the death to win the penalty that ensured Scotland’s victory. 7

Luke Crosbie Fought hard at the breakdown in just his third appearance for his country. 7

Matt Fagerson Scotland’s most impressive loose forward, he provided the scoring pass for Van der Merwe’s second try. 7

Best of the rest:

George Horne Came on for White and added some extra zip to the attack.

Blair Kinghorn Replaced Hogg and brought his customary enthusiasm and self-belief to proceedings.

Jack Dempsey Brought some extra beef to the back-row battle.

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