Scotland announce Rugby World Cup warm-up Tests

NEWS: Scotland announced on Tuesday they will play four warm-up Tests – including two matches against Rugby World Cup hosts France – as they gear up for the tournament, which starts in September.

Gregor Townsend’s team will host Italy on July 29 before playing current Six Nations champions France home and away, on August 5 and 12. They finish off their programme against Georgia at Murrayfield two weeks later.

Scotland have been drawn in Pool B alongside defending world champions South Africa, Ireland, Tonga and Romania – the sport’s quadrennial showpiece starts on September 8.

Townsend said 2023 would be a “huge year” for the national team.

“All four fixtures will provide invaluable experiences in our preparation for the tournament,” he said.

“Having the opportunity to play at home on three occasions before we depart will enable our players to feel the backing of our supporters ahead of setting off for the World Cup.

“The match against France away from home will be very important as we are going to spend time at our training base for the World Cup in Nice prior to the match and replicate the schedule our players will experience during the tournament itself.”

This year’s Six Nations begins on February 4, with Scotland travelling to England for their opener.