Possible Scotland Lineup Strategy
For Scotland, this match comes after playing major Tier 1 nations (USA, New Zealand, and Argentina). Head Coach Gregor Townsend is likely to use this game to balance giving caps to emerging players while ensuring a strong, cohesive performance to finish the autumn campaign on a high.
Likely Selections (Core Experience)
Half-Backs: Sione Tuipulotu (Captain) and Finn Russell (or an experienced alternate like Adam Hastings) provide the necessary structure and playmaking. Ben White (or George Horne) at scrum-half is also a high probability.
Back Three: Kyle Steyn is a strong bet on the wing, as he has a prolific scoring record against Tonga (four tries in the 2021 match). Duhan van der Merwe will likely feature for his try-scoring threat, or Darcy Graham could start if Duhan is rested.
Forwards (Set Piece): Key forwards like Pierre Schoeman (Prop), Zander Fagerson (Prop), and Scott Cummings (Lock) will likely anchor the pack to counter Tonga’s well-known physicality in the scrum and maul.
Opportunities for Emerging Players (Rotation)
Given the context, we could see some rotation, especially in the back row and at hooker:
Back Row: Players like Liam McConnell (uncapped) or Alexander Masibaka (uncapped) could be given a start or significant bench time to develop international experience alongside experienced leaders like Jamie Ritchie or Rory Darge.
Hooker: One of the less-capped hookers, such as Ewan Ashman or Patrick Harrison, could get a start over George Turner.
🇹🇴 Possible Tonga Lineup Strategy
Tonga’s approach is simpler: select their strongest available team to deliver a highly physical performance and challenge a Tier 1 nation. Their squad blends European-based professionals with players from the Pacific region.
Likely Core Players
Physicality & Power: Expect the heaviest available forwards to start, including experienced props and locks, to dominate the contact area and set piece.
Fly-Half: Patrick Pellegrini is a key playmaker and likely to start at number 10, as he is instrumental in their attack and game management.
Star Talent: Key European-based players, especially those with powerful running games and high tackle counts, will be essential, such as their strong wingers and centres, to exploit any space Scotland leaves open.
Scrum-Half: The experienced Sonatane Takulua will be crucial for managing the forward pack and fast-paced attack.
The final official line-ups will likely be released by the teams in the week leading up to the game, around November 19-21, 2025.
Would you like me to look up the official team announcement when it is made closer to the match date?