The importance of Finn Russell to Scotland can't be overstated

It is hard to overstate just how important Finn Russell will be to Scotland’s chances of progressing from the toughest of World Cup pools

MATURING: Finn Russel at the Scotland World Cup squad announcement in South Queensferry. Pic: Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

Given the wild disparity between Scotland’s expectations going into the last World Cup and the reality of their performances at that tournament, it is rather surprising that Gregor Townsend is the only current head coach of a top 10 nation to have stayed in post throughout the last four years.

In some cases – such as with Ireland, New Zealand and Argentina – the change at the top was achieved in an orderly and timely manner, while in others – such as England, Australia and Fiji – it was more frantic due to either a worrying performance trajectory or an undisclosed personal matter which led to an abrupt resignation.