Scotland have hope of mounting a Six Nations title challenge as they embark on a fresh campaign against Italy. While optimism has been punctured somewhat by a string of untimely injuries, Gregor Townsend’s settled squad are confident that they can build on their development over the last few years and back up big performances to challenge for a long-awaited title.

Scotland will be out for revenge on Saturday as they take on Italy at Murrayfield in their opening fixture of the 2025 Six Nations. Last year's encounter between these two sides saw the Italians secure their first Six Nations home win in 11 years,

Nathan: For many years Scotland have struggled to compete with the big teams in the front five. While we have a decent group starting, we lack depth at hooker, tight-head and second row. Could be a long Six Nations!