A Century of Rugby Glory at Murrayfield: All Blacks Gear Up for Epic Scotland Clash
This Sunday, the All Blacks face Scotland at Edinburgh's iconic Murrayfield Stadium, and it’s more than just a game—it's a celebration of history, rivalry, and rugby excellence.
New Zealand comes into the match aiming to extend an extraordinary 120-year unbeaten streak in Scotland, the longest winning run in their Test rugby history. Meanwhile, Scotland is preparing to mark a monumental milestone: 100 years of Test matches at their home ground. The clash promises to be as emotionally charged as it is competitive.
Leicester Fainga'anuku, who impressed as a replacement for Jordie Barrett against Ireland last weekend, highlighted the significance of Scotland's celebration. "It's a remarkable achievement for them," Fainga'anuku said. "If you review the recent encounters between our teams, many were decided by just seven points or fewer. For us, being part of their centenary celebrations is a privilege, and we'll savor that while staying focused on the challenge ahead."
Fainga'anuku also reflected on his growing partnership with centre Quinn Tupaea, a combination forged over years from age-group rugby with New Zealand Schools and the Under-20s. "Playing alongside Quinn in Chicago was fantastic. We've built a strong connection, and if given the chance, we want to keep developing it in the All Blacks midfield. Whether I play as second five-eighth or centre, I just want to contribute where I can."
Assistant coach Jason Holland emphasized the weight of the occasion. "Every Test for the All Blacks is meaningful, but the history and statistics here make it even more special. We have no intention of helping Scotland break our streak," he said. Holland noted Scotland’s recent growth in rugby and the heightened importance of the Murrayfield centenary. "Gregor Townsend’s team is dangerous—they play a style that punishes mistakes. We must be disciplined and avoid giving them easy opportunities."
Holland also singled out Scotland’s first five-eighth, Finn Russell, as a major threat. Having coached Russell at Canterbury's International Performance Centre early in his career, Holland described him as "a maverick player, fearless, self-confident, and highly skilled. From the start, he had the drive to be the best, and he has shown it in numerous arenas."
Reflecting on their recent 26-13 victory over Ireland, Holland said the final quarter demonstrated the All Blacks’ ideal approach. "Test match rugby requires a fine balance between running and kicking, and we got those choices right in the second half. The first half had too many skill errors, which prevented us from playing our way. Once we executed properly, our game flowed."
In team news, Jordie Barrett has unfortunately been ruled out for the rest of the Northern Tour after sustaining a high ankle injury and a minor knee issue in the Ireland Test. Barrett will return to New Zealand on Wednesday (Thursday morning NZT) to begin his rehabilitation under the Hurricanes medical team.
But here’s where it gets controversial: With Barrett out, will Fainga'anuku and Tupaea’s partnership be tested sooner than expected? Could Scotland finally break the All Blacks’ century-long dominance in Edinburgh? The answers remain to be seen, and it promises a clash full of drama, skill, and history. Fans, what do you think—can Scotland finally end the streak, or will New Zealand's legacy continue unbroken?
