‘Crazy decision’: the Wales Six Nations own goal that will help Scotland

Scotland will play in Cardiff on Saturday and Hamilton thinks the dry ball will suit Gregor Townsend’s side who go into the match on a high after their 31-20 win over England.

The victory reinvigorated the Scots’ championship challenge after a disappointing defeat away to Italy in monsoon conditions in round one.

The rain made running rugby almost impossible in Rome and contrasted sharply with the Murrayfield match with England which showcased Scotland’s backline at its best. Hamilton hopes to see more of the same at the Principality Stadium.

Tough day at the office for Wales

“The roof closed… I think is a crazy decision for Wales, because the weather is a leveller as we've seen,” said Hamilton, who will be part of the Premier Sports team covering the match in Cardiff. “But if the roof is closed and you look at Scotland's skillset and the way that they can get into the wide channels, and you go based on how Wales have been defending, you look at the aerial contest that Scotland won against England incredibly well, then you can see a tough day at the office for Wales.”

Wales lost 54-12 at home to France on Sunday with the roof closed as the visitors made the most of the dry conditions.

It was announced in January 2025 that the roof at the Principality Stadium would be closed for all Wales’ home fixtures for the next two years. Previously, the protocol was that it would only be shut if both teams agreed. The decision was taken because a closed roof helps generate a better atmosphere. In theory, that should help Steve Tandy’s team but Hamilton is not convinced.

“If I'm Steve Tandy, I'm saying ‘you keep the roof open, please’. Scotland’s backline is freakishly good.”

• Jim Hamilton is part of the Premier Sports team bringing live Guinness Men's Six Nations Rugby to rugby fans across the UK - broadcasting one live match per round throughout the 2026 Championship. This Saturday join Jim Hamilton, Ryan Wilson, Tom Shanklin, Rory Lawson and Ryle Nugent pitchside at the Principality Stadium for Wales v Scotland on Premier Sports 1 and Premier Sports Rugby from 4pm. To join in visit www.premiersports.com from £11.99 a month.

Get 50% off an annual subscription to The Scotsman and a chance to win a Scotland rugby shirt as part of our Six Nations deal. Subscribe to unlock full access to our website today.