Legendary Scottish rugby coach calls for popular anthem to be axed
Yesterday at 05:38 PM
Former Scotland coach Jim Telfer, 82, has suggested that the beloved anthem, Flower of Scotland, might need to make its way to the archives.
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According to Telfer, the anthem's anti-English sentiment doesn't sit quite right with the world today.
Why Telfer wants a change
The rugby legend believes that while Flower of Scotland once stirred up national pride, it may no longer be the best fit. “Times have moved on,” Telfer explained earlier this year, arguing that the song's pointed message against another nation is no longer ideal.
In an interview with The Times, he said: “We need to stop defining ourselves through England, and it would be a sign of maturity if we got ourselves a decent national anthem.
“We should change it and have something that reflects us as a mature nation, instead of talking about another country. It would show us in a better light.
“Back then [in 1990], it really got the crowd behind us, but I'd like to think we have moved on…
“Flower of Scotland is a great song in a way and it does get the hairs on your neck straightening and standing up.
“But because it's against another country, I still don't think it's the ideal anthem.
“People sing that song, sing about the English, and it's just in the moment.”
Foreign-born players in the 2024 Autumn Nations Series breakdown by country
The 2024 Autumn Nations Series is underway, and each team brings not only skill and strategy but also a diverse array of players from around the world.
Here's a look at the foreign-born players representing the home nations – England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland – and the unique backgrounds they bring to their squads.
Scotland – 17 players
Scotland's foreign-born players come from a mix of rugby powerhouse nations, adding depth and versatility:
Ewan Ashman (Canada) – This hooker was born in Canada but moved to Scotland at an early age. Known for his dynamic carries, Ashman brings a Canadian spark to the Scottish front row.
Dylan Richardson (South Africa) – The South African-born Richardson is a hard-hitting back-rower who qualified for Scotland through his mother. He's known for his physical presence and adaptability on the field.
Will Hurd (England) – Although born in England, Hurd made his mark in Scotland's rugby system and earned his cap for the Scottish team.
Nathan McBeth (South Africa) – Originally from South Africa, McBeth brings strong scrummaging skills and qualified to represent Scotland, further strengthening their pack.
Elliot Millar-Mills (England) – Born in England but committed to Scottish rugby, Millar-Mills is another versatile prop adding depth to the front row.
Pierre Schoeman (South Africa) – Schoeman's powerful scrummaging and dynamic open play have quickly made him a fan favourite. The South African-born prop has fully embraced his Scottish allegiance.
Ewan Johnson (England) – A dependable lock, Johnson's English roots have helped balance out the squad with a variety of playing experiences.
Josh Bayliss (England) – A back-rower who qualifies through his Scottish heritage, Bayliss adds further English flair to the Scotland back row.
Jack Dempsey (Australia) – Formerly capped for Australia, Dempsey now dons Scottish colours, bringing experience and physicality to the Scottish pack.
Ali Price (England) – The scrum-half was born in England but developed his career in Scotland, becoming a critical component of their attacking play.
Ben White (England) – Born in England, White offers a fresh scrum-half option, helping Scotland maintain momentum in open play.
Tom Jordan (New Zealand) – A New Zealand-born fly-half, Jordan represents Scotland, bringing tactical insight and calm playmaking to the squad.
Rory Hutchinson (England) – Known for his speed and footwork, Hutchinson brings a dynamic English background to the Scottish backline.
Sione Tuipulotu (Australia) – Born in Australia with Tongan heritage, Tuipulotu brings strength and flair to Scotland's midfield options.
Arron Reed (England) – Reed's English roots add depth to Scotland's wing options, known for his acceleration and finishing abilities.
Kyle Rowe (England) – Another English-born wing, Rowe's explosive pace is a significant asset for Scotland in attack.
Duhan van der Merwe (South Africa) – A South African powerhouse wing, van der Merwe is known for his destructive running and finishing prowess, making him a standout in the Scottish squad.
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