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Why Scotland newbie Matthews merits his call-up - Steve Tandy
By PA
Steve Tandy admitted Johnny Matthews has earned his chance after the Glasgow centre was called into the Scotland squad for the first time.
The 25-year-old hooker was drafted in as a late inclusion for the trip to South America following concerns over clubmate George Turner, who has been struggling with illness.
“George Turner has picked up a bit of an illness so we just wanted a bit of coverage there,” Scotland defence coach Tandy explained.
“Johnny has been firmly in our thoughts and round the discussions for selection.
“At Glasgow you’ve got Fraser Brown and George Turner, and Johnny has really matched up with them and performed in some big games. It’s an exciting opportunity for him but also for us to work closely with him.”
Turner remains in contention to feature on the tour which will include an A team game against Chile next weekend and then three Tests against Argentina.
However, it was announced on Friday that Gloucester fly-half Adam Hastings and Harlequins’ Huw Jones have withdrawn from the squad due to hamstring and back issues respectively. No replacements have been called in for either player.
“It’s unfortunate for the boys missing out but we feel round the backline we’ve got enough cover there to take on the tour,” said Tandy, explaining why no new backs have been called in ahead of the squad’s departure for South America this Sunday.
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Latest Comments
Don't think you've watched enough. I'll take him over anything I's seen so far. But let's see how the future pans out. I'm quietly confident we have a row of 10's lined uo who would each start in many really good teams.
Go to commentsHopefully Joe stays where he is. That would mean Les, McKellar, larkham and Cron should as well. It’s the stability we need in the state programs. But, if Joe goes, RA with its current financial situation will be forced into promoting from within. And this will likely destabilise other areas.
To better understand some of the entrenched bitterness of those outside of NZ and NSW (as an example 😂), Nic, there is probably a comparison to the old hard heads of welsh rugby who are still stuck in the 1970s. Before the days where clubs merged, professionalism started, and the many sharp knives were put into the backs of those who loved the game more than everyone else. I’m sure you know a few... But given your comparison of rugby in both wales and Australia, there are a few north of the tweed that will never trust a kiwi or NSWelshman because of historical events and issues over the history of the game. It is what it is. For some, time does not heal all wounds. And it is still festering away in some people. Happy holidays to you. All the best in 2025.
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