Scotland
Sione Tuipulotu
Gatland has been particularly impressed with Tuipulotu’s development in the midfield, noting his diverse skill set:
“He has probably been one of the most improved players in the past three years. From midfield he has got great variations. It is not just about the bish-bash in terms of carrying. There are a lot of attributes to admire about him. He can get you on the front foot with his footwork and has a nice passing and offloading game.”
At 27, Tuipulotu’s combination of physicality and finesse has helped transform Scotland’s backline into a more formidable attacking force.
Duhan van der Merwe
Van der Merwe’s sheer physicality and ability to change a game have made him a standout for Gatland:
“He has got real X-factor. A big man who is so important for Scotland. I have watched him a couple of times for Edinburgh and he was the stand-out player, the one man who could make a real difference.”
At 28, Van der Merwe’s power and explosiveness on the wing make him one of Scotland’s most potent weapons, a player capable of breaking through the toughest defences.
