Scotland to play four RWC 2023 warm-up Tests

Starting with a home fixture against Italy on Saturday 29 July, Scotland will then welcome France a week later, before travelling to face the Rugby World Cup hosts on Saturday 12 August with the venue to be confirmed.

After a week’s break, Scotland will complete their summer programme against Georgia at BT Murrayfield on Saturday 26 August, with kick-off times for all games to be confirmed in due course.

The Rugby World Cup 2023 will take place between 8 September and 28 October next year, with Scotland drawn in Pool B alongside defending world champions South Africa, Ireland, Tonga and Romania.

Head coach Gregor Townsend said: “2023 is a huge year for our national team and after the Guinness 6 Nations our focus will quickly turn to the Rugby World Cup.

“All four fixtures will provide invaluable experiences in our preparation for the tournament. Having the opportunity to play at home on three occasions before we depart will enable our players to feel the backing of our supporters ahead of setting off for the World Cup.

“The match against France away from home will be very important as we are going to spend time at our training base for the World Cup in Nice prior to the match and replicate the schedule our players will experience during the tournament itself.”

Scotland’s 2023 Summer Test Schedule (Kick-off times to be confirmed)

Scotland v Italy                Saturday 29 July, BT Murrayfield
Scotland v France            Saturday 5 August, BT Murrayfield
France v Scotland            Saturday 12 August, TBC
Scotland v Georgia          Saturday 26 August, BT Murrayfield