Scotland hooker Gregor Hiddleston believes his Glasgow experience of winning at Loftus Versfeld could prove invaluable against the Springboks on Saturday.
The 24-year-old made a dream Test debut against Argentina at the weekend, scoring off the bench as Scotland opened their Nations Championship campaign with 47-38 victory in Córdoba.
Now his focus shifts to Pretoria, where he famously helped the Glasgow Warriors stun the Bulls to win the 2023-24 Vodacom URC title.
“I’ve been there [South Africa] with Glasgow before,” Hiddleston said. “One of the fondest memories I have was when we won the URC out there.
“That was a great night to be a part of, so looking forward to getting back.”
VAN GRAAN: Russell can hurt Springboks
Loftus has long been one of the toughest venues in world rugby, but Hiddleston believes Scotland’s growing familiarity with South African conditions through the URC will stand them in good stead.
“I think being in the URC, we go across for our two-week tour every season, and it’s massive for us.
“We’re a bit more used to it now, going over there. I think we’ve got good experience being there and know what it’s all about. But we know it’s going to be a big test against South Africa and a big, strong team, so we’ll have to put our best foot forward.”
MORE: All Blacks reduce Boks’ rankings lead
Scotland head to Pretoria full of confidence after their win over Argentina, but face a daunting challenge against a Springbok side that defeated England 45-21 at Ellis Park and has made Loftus Versfeld one of the most intimidating venues in international rugby.
“I think there’s definitely a lot of confidence in the camp,” Hiddleston said.
“You can see that even off the pitch as well, all the boys are so close and well-connected. It transfers into the pitch, so it’s a really happy place to be.”
Photo: Marcos Brindicci/Getty Images
The post Scotland rookie not afraid of Loftus cauldron appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Scotland hooker Gregor Hiddleston believes his Glasgow experience of winning at Loftus Versfeld could prove invaluable against the Springboks on Saturday.
The post Scotland rookie not afraid of Loftus cauldron appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
