Ahead of Scotland’s crucial Six Nations clash on Saturday, star lock Grant Gilchrist has strongly backed Gregor Townsend to remain at the helm as head coach, despite the growing pressure following a challenging tournament for the national team. In a statement that aims to reassure supporters and players alike, Gilchrist insisted that Townsend is still the “answer” for Scotland, a sentiment that comes as the team struggles to turn potential into consistent results.
Townsend, who has been at the helm since 2017, has faced increasing scrutiny in recent weeks. After a series of underwhelming performances, Scotland’s hopes of securing a strong finish in the Six Nations were dashed once again, leaving many to question whether the former Glasgow Warriors coach is the right man to lead the team into the 2025 Rugby World Cup. However, Gilchrist, one of the senior figures in the squad, has unequivocally thrown his support behind Townsend, citing his leadership and tactical acumen as key to Scotland’s continued development.
“Gregor has been the answer for Scotland over the past few years,” Gilchrist said. “He’s brought in a level of detail, intensity, and direction to the team that we’ve never had before. It’s easy to point to results, but the bigger picture matters. We’ve made huge strides under his guidance.”
Despite Scotland’s frustration over missed opportunities in the 2025 Six Nations, Gilchrist was quick to highlight the progress made since Townsend took charge. Under his leadership, Scotland has become a more competitive force in international rugby, with the team pushing the top sides to the limit, even if results haven’t always gone in their favor. The win over France in 2024, and their close encounters with England and Ireland, serve as reminders of the potential within the squad.
“We’re getting closer,” Gilchrist continued. “We know we’re not far off, and Gregor is the one who has set the path for us. The focus has always been on improving, and we’re seeing that in the way we play. There are always things to work on, but that’s part of the process.”
The pressure on Townsend is certainly mounting, with some fans and pundits questioning whether his methods have run their course. The high expectations for the 2025 Rugby World Cup have only intensified the debate, with Scotland yet to deliver a truly standout performance in the Six Nations during his tenure.
Nevertheless, Gilchrist believes that the future remains bright under Townsend’s stewardship. “It’s a process,” he added. “We need to back ourselves and Gregor to bring us to that next level. We’re still building, and there’s belief within the squad that we’re on the right track.”
With the upcoming match crucial for Scotland’s standings in the tournament, all eyes will be on the team’s performance. But for now, Gilchrist has made it clear that he firmly believes in the direction Townsend is taking, insisting that the coach remains the best person to lead Scotland into the future.
