Finn Russell believes that his turbulent history with Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has ultimately strengthened their relationship.
The 32-year-old fly-half and Townsend have had their clashes, but both insist those days are behind them as they aim to drive Scotland forward.
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Their most notable bust-up came in 2020, when Russell left the squad ahead of the Six Nations after being disciplined for missing training following a drinking session.
Two years later, his international future was in doubt again after another unauthorised night out during the Six Nations. He was then left out of the squad for the autumn tests – a move that raised eyebrows across the rugby world.
Clear-the-air talks followed, leading to Russell’s recall, and since then the pair have been “on the same page.”
“I think 2020 would have been the closest to that,” Russell said when asked if he ever thought his Scotland career was over.
“I was still young enough then that I wouldn’t have said I’d have been done (with Scotland), but with the relationship me and Gregor had, it was potentially tough at the time to see a way back for both of us, but I think it shows how well we’ve both dealt with it since then.
“At the time, it wasn’t great for either side, but it shows both our characters that we’ve managed to get over that to where we are now. Going back to 2020, you wouldn’t have picked me as captain three or four years later, would you?
“It shows how we’ve both changed and adapted off the back of that situation. These things happen in high-pressure environments when things are potentially not going as planned.
“A bust-up happened, that’s kind of all it was, but six months later we were back on good enough terms that I then came back that November.
“And then in 2022, there was another slight fall-out again I suppose, but then I came back again in the November and we were both back on the same page. It’s been great since then, that’s all in the past. It’s not something me and Gregor talk about much.”
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Updated 2027 Rugby World Cup Draw: England to Face Tournament Debutants
In a historic shift for the global game, Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia will feature 24 teams, a bold move by World Rugby aimed at making the sport more inclusive, competitive, and truly global.
The tournament’s structure and timing now better reflect current global rankings, thanks to a late pool draw in December this year made possible by reforms in 2022.
Here’s a breakdown of the predicted groups and team bios for the RWC 2027:
🏆 Group A
South Africa 🇿🇦
The reigning world champions and four-time RWC winners, the Springboks bring a powerhouse blend of physicality, tactical brilliance, and iconic leadership.
Argentina 🇦🇷
Los Pumas continue to rise as a Tier 1 nation, combining flair and fearlessness. Semifinalists in 2007 and 2015, they’re known for big-game upsets.
Samoa 🇼🇸
With deep roots in rugby tradition, Samoa’s raw physicality and natural flair make them one of the most dangerous Tier 2 teams in the game.
Tonga 🇹🇴
The ‘Ikale Tahi’ bring bone-crunching tackles and island pride. With several stars playing abroad, Tonga is always capable of springing a surprise.
🌍 Group B
New Zealand 🇳🇿
The legendary All Blacks need no introduction—three-time world champions with a relentless pursuit of perfection and a legacy of innovation.
Scotland 🏴
A Six Nations stalwart, Scotland blends tactical kicking and dynamic playmakers, looking to go beyond the quarterfinals for the first time since 1991.
Japan 🇯🇵
The Brave Blossoms became global darlings in 2019 with a stunning quarterfinal run. Expect lightning-quick rucks and passionate homegrown talent.
Chile 🇨🇱
One of the emerging forces from South America, Chile made its first RWC appearance in 2023. Physical, proud, and improving fast.
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