Scotland U20 head coach Kenny Murray unveiled the team to face Wales U20 in their final home match of the 2025 U20 Six Nations, set for this Friday, March 7, at DAM Health Stadium, with kick-off at 7:00 PM. The lineup features four changes from the side that suffered a 47-12 defeat to England last week, including a competitive debut for Heriot’s Rugby centre Angus Hunter.
Hunter, who steps into the starting XV at outside centre (position 13), replaces Freddy Douglas and marks his first appearance in the championship. The 20-year-old earned his place after impressing in training, having previously featured in a Scotland U20 summer camp fixture against Georgia in 2024. His inclusion shifts captain Kerr Johnston from centre to the left wing (position 11), with Finlay Doyle dropping to the bench.
In the forwards, three changes bolster the pack. In the front row, Ollie Blyth-Lafferty earns his first start of the campaign at loosehead prop (position 1), replacing the injured Callum Smyth, who suffered a knee injury against England. Jerry Blyth-Lafferty, Ollie’s twin brother, continues at tighthead prop (position 3), while hooker Elliot Young (position 2) retains his spot. The second row remains unchanged, with Euan McVie and Ruaraidh Hart providing continuity.
The back row sees two further adjustments. Jake Parkinson comes in at openside flanker (position 7) for his first start, replacing Charlie West, who moves to the replacements. Luke Coulston takes over at number eight (position 8) from Tom Currie, who is also named among the substitutes.
The backline otherwise remains largely intact. Scrum-half Hector Patterson (position 9) and fly-half Isaac Coates (position 10) continue their half-back partnership, while full-back Jack Hocking (position 15) and right winger Geordie Gwynn (position 14) hold their positions. Kerr Johnston’s shift to the wing completes the starting XV.
On the bench, Murray has named Jamie McAuley as hooker cover, alongside props Robbie Deans and Marcus Brogan. Second-row forward Charlie Hunter and back-row substitute Charlie West provide forward depth, while scrum-half Murdoch Lock, centre Finlay Doyle, and versatile back Johnny Ventisei round out the 5-3 forwards-to-backs split.
Reflecting on the selection, Kenny Murray said, “After a tough result against England last weekend, it’s been a really positive week with the group. We’re looking forward to putting in a strong performance in front of our home support at DAM Health Stadium tomorrow night. Angus Hunter has trained really well and deserves his opportunity in the midfield, while it’s great to give Ollie Blyth-Lafferty his first start of the campaign too.
Murray also highlighted the challenge posed by Wales, noting, “Wales will be a physical side who will look to move the ball, so we’ll need to be ready to combat that and put our best foot forward from minute one.”
Scotland U20 are still seeking their first win of the 2025 U20 Six Nations, having lost to Ireland (29-10), England (47-12), and drawn with Italy (27-27) in their opening three matches. Wales U20, meanwhile, sit third in the table with two wins from three, making this a critical test for the young Scots. With vocal home support expected at DAM Health Stadium, Murray’s side will aim to harness the energy of the crowd and deliver a spirited performance to close out their home fixtures.
