BBC Radio Scotland Rugby Podcast - Squad Revealed: Townsend's Big Selection Decisions

Download Squad Revealed: Townsend's Big Selection Decisions

Scotland are preparing for a huge month of international rugby. Gregor Townsend joins Tom English and Andy Burke to discuss squad selection, competition for places and preparations for matches against New Zealand, Australia and Japan. The panel debates the biggest selection calls, assesses Scotland's depth across the squad and asks whether this group can finally take the next step on the international stage. Plus, reaction to Edinburgh and Glasgow's strong URC form and signs of progress from Scotland Women despite another defeat in WXV competition.

00:00 Scotland Squad Day Arrives

00:29 The Surprise Selection: Ollie Leatherbarrow

01:56 Do Edinburgh Fans Have a Right to Feel Aggrieved?

05:48 Where Does Duhan van der Merwe Stand?

09:26 Is This Scotland's Deepest Squad Yet?

11:53 Gregor Townsend Interview Begins

15:23 Why Some Edinburgh Players Missed Out

16:47 The Thinking Behind Leatherbarrow's Inclusion

18:17 What About Magnus Bradbury?

19:15 Townsend on Bradbury and Freddie Douglas

21:38 Building Towards the World Cup

24:03 Preparing for New Zealand

Published on Tuesday, 27th October 2026.

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