BBC Radio Scotland Rugby Podcast

Andy Burke and the team review an opening day defeat for Scotland, as they lose 18-15 to Italy in Rome

Tom English and Andy Burke discuss the news that has come out of the Scotland camp ahead of their Six Nations opener including speculation around Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend's links to Newcastle Red Bulls - are Scotland's rugby public being played? And his decision to leave Duhan van der Merwe and Darcy Graham - the top two try-scorers in Scotland's history - as well as British and Irish Lions test full-back Blair Kinghorn out of the team to face Italy in Rome

Tom and Andy look forward to Scotland's Six Nations opener against Italy, answer audience questions and discuss the 2027 Rugby World Cup schedule. Is it hope or dread for Scotland fans in the run up to the competition? Can Scotland go into round four with something to really play for? How much does Gregor Townsend need a good Six Nations to regain favour with Scotland rugby fans? Does the new condensed competition format put Scotland at a disadvantage compared to England or France and how might player injury affect Scotland’s potential in the competition? Tom and Andy chat through it all.

In our build up to Scotland's Six Nations opener against Italy in Rome, Tom and Andy chat to Kyle Steyn about competition on Scotland's wing and how to regain the trust of Scotland fans. We hear from Huw Jones on his journey back from injury and his decision to leave the Warriors and Josh Bayliss on the competition to play in Scotland's back row. Plus we hear from new father Matt Fagerson on the physical and mental demands of preparing for the competition, Pierre Schoeman on why he loves being around other props and Gregor Brown applies the Traitors process to the Scotland squad

Andy Burke and Tom English are joined by Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend on the day he names his squad for the Six Nations.
We find out why Gregor Hiddleston missed out - and would selecting 10 or even 11 Glasgow Warriors cause a problem?
How much influence has the forthcoming World Cup had on his selection plans?
With the opening Test in Rome looming, are Scotland ready - and are Italy the favourites?
Plus: “They are an attacking wonder” - why Glasgow Warriors are now serious contenders in Europe.