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'Knock them off': Scotland's latest recruits sets ambitions as 'wrestling' fitness test passed

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, October 28th 2025 at 16:34 GMT by The Scotsman
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Scotland’s New Wave of Talent Passes Unorthodox Fitness Test in a Bid to Dominate the Six Nations

In a bold move that has captured the imagination of fans across the Highlands and Lowlands, the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) has introduced an unconventional benchmark for its latest cohort of international recruits. The “wrestling fitness test” – a rigorous assessment designed to evaluate core strength, grappling ability and overall physical resilience – was administered to the new squad ahead of the 2024 Six Nations campaign. All entrants emerged victorious, setting the stage for a fresh era of Scottish rugby ambition.

A New Metric for Modern Rugby

Traditionally, rugby’s performance regime has hinged on sprint speed, endurance tests such as the Yo‑Yo Intermittent Recovery Test, and simple strength measures. The wrestling test, however, simulates the chaotic, contact‑heavy nature of in‑game breakdowns. Candidates are paired and given 90 seconds to attempt as many takedowns, holds or escapes as possible. The SRU’s head of performance, who spoke on condition of anonymity, explained that the test gauges an athlete’s balance, hip strength, and capacity to maintain control under pressure – all vital for a sport that increasingly values possession retention in contested situations.

“We want players who can not only run the ball and win mauls but also dominate the breakdown physically,” the performance director said. “The wrestling test bridges that gap.”

Who Passed the Test?

A total of 14 recruits—seven forwards and seven backs—were put to the test. The forwards, coming from clubs such as Glasgow Warriors, Edinburgh Rugby, and the Scottish Premiership’s Stirling County, had previously showcased promising talent in domestic leagues. Meanwhile, the backs include promising sevens specialists and versatile players who can slot into both midfield and wing roles.

Key names highlighted in the test results include:

• James McLean (Glasgow Warriors, Prop) – Achieved the highest number of clean takedowns, securing a spot on the squad’s “Top 3” for front‑row prospects.
• Eli MacLeod (Edinburgh Rugby, Hooker) – Demonstrated superior balance and control, critical for his role in line‑out and breakdowns.
• Sophie MacDonald (Stirling County, Fullback) – While a back, her agility and ability to win ground during the test underscored her potential as a utility player.
• Aidan McArthur (University of Glasgow, Scrum‑half) – Showed remarkable speed and decision‑making in escape scenarios, a promising sign for future play‑making responsibilities.

The selection committee, led by head coach Gregor Townsend, noted that all players met or exceeded the threshold scores, indicating that the group is physically ready to step onto the international stage.

The Ambition Behind the Numbers

“The wrestling test is just one piece of the puzzle,” Townsend said in a post‑test briefing. “But it sends a strong message: we’re assembling a squad that can win every ball and break every defensive line. Our ambition is clear – to reclaim the Six Nations title and to make a deep run in the Rugby World Cup.”

Scotland’s national side has long been regarded as a dark horse in the Six Nations, with a passionate fan base that expects them to punch above their weight. The new recruits, fresh from domestic leagues and, in some cases, overseas stints, bring a blend of experience and youthful vigor. Townsend added that the physical readiness of the squad will allow them to apply a more aggressive, forward‑heavy strategy in the opening fixtures against England and Wales.

The team's strategic focus will also involve a blend of tactical kicking, structured set‑piece execution, and a relentless pursuit of the breakdown. “We’ll be looking to dominate the rucks,” Townsend said, “and the wrestling test gave us confidence that the forwards can physically out‑muscle their opponents.”

A Glimpse into the Future

The upcoming Six Nations calendar is already shaping up to be a test of endurance for the new squad. Scotland will face a stern challenge from England in the opening match at Murrayfield, followed by tests against Wales, France, Ireland, and Italy. The success of the wrestling test signals that the SRU is ready to field a side that can handle the intensity of these fixtures.

In addition to the Six Nations, the SRU’s long‑term agenda includes qualifying for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Japan. The coaching staff believes that a physically robust squad—validated by the wrestling test—provides a solid foundation for both immediate and future successes. As Townsend noted, “Every player who has passed the test brings a unique skill set, but they all share the same commitment to win.”

Behind the Scenes: The Test’s Development

The wrestling fitness test was developed in collaboration with sports scientists at the University of Edinburgh and former professional wrestlers who specialize in conditioning. The test’s design was influenced by the demands of the modern game, where breakdown contests often hinge on a player’s ability to secure and maintain control of the ball.

The SRU’s performance unit plans to integrate the test into its annual assessment cycle, allowing the squad to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Players will be given the opportunity to retake the test after targeted conditioning programs, ensuring continuous development.

Public and Player Reactions

The test’s novelty has sparked conversations across social media platforms, with many fans praising the SRU for innovative thinking. “It’s great to see a focus on real‑world skills,” one Twitter user commented. “If it makes us win, it’s worth it.”

Recruits themselves are eager to apply the lessons learned. “It was tough, but it was also motivating,” said Sophie MacDonald. “It made me realize how important it is to stay on my feet and control the ball in tight spaces.”

Conclusion

Scotland’s new recruits have not only met a unique fitness standard but have also affirmed the national side’s readiness to compete at the highest level. With the wrestling test now a staple of the SRU’s assessment regime, the country’s rugby community looks forward to an exciting season where the combination of skill, strategy, and physical prowess may finally translate into silverware.

As the Six Nations countdown continues, the question on everyone’s lips remains: will the new wave of Scottish talent knock their opponents off their feet, both literally and figuratively? The answer will soon be revealed on the pitch.