Glasgow Warriors look to have their squad set for the 2026/27 season after defence coach Scott Forrest recently confirmed they were unlikely to make any further new signings.
Former Scotland captain Jamie Ritchie should prove a quality addition to the back row especially after the loss of international teammate Jack Dempsey. Warriors also have some promising talent coming through as well as a very strong core of establish players despite the recent departures.
Here is how The Scotsman views the best starting XV available to Franco Smith ahead of Glasgow Warriors’ 2026/27 United Rugby Championship and Investec Champions Cup campaigns:
5. Scott Cummings
A key player for club and country with the British & Irish Lions regarded as one of the URC's best locks. | SNS Group
6. Jamie Ritchie
The new arrival is expected to slot straight into the Warriors' starting XV and that will most likely come in his favoured position of six | SNS Group
.jpeg?trim=0,240,0,240&crop=&width=800)
7. Rory Darge
There's decent depth in the back-row for Warriors but nobody is displacing Darge in the seven jersey if he's fit and available | SNS Group
8. Matt Fagerson
Jack Dempsey's move to Japan leaves a big gap in the back row and although Fagerson has been excellent for club and country in the six jersey his ball carrying ability and size will likely be required to move to eight | SNS Group