An absolutely breathless contest at Loftus Versfeld ended in defeat for Scotland as South Africa overcame them to win 42-28 in the second round of the 2026 Nations Championship.
Gregor Townsend’s players ran themselves into the ground in Pretoria in search of victory and pushed the best team in the world to their limits. However, the back-to-back world cup winners showed their class and strength in depth as a much altered side overpowered the Scots in the end.
It was a match where we saw some players at their very best while others really seemed to struggle. Here is how we rated the Scotland stating XV and replacements from their loss to the Boks:
13. Rory Hutchinson - 7
A few eye catching moments and passes as he makes another claim to be Scotland's first choice outside centre | Getty Images
14. Kyle Steyn - 7
Boks were ready for his threat and matched him in the aerial contest. For many other wingers the knock on from the kick late on would have been harsh to criticise but with his record you expected him to catch it and score | SNS Group / SRU
15. Kyle Rowe - 8
Continued on with his form from last weekend against Argentina and looked a serious threat whenever the ball came to his hands | SNS Group / SRU
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16. Replacements (forwards)
Josh Bayliss played 40 minutes and got a try from a good support line (7). Gregor Hiddleston made a noticeable impact from the bench (6). Rory Sutherland on his 50th cap and Will Hurd refreshed the front row when needed (both 5s). Magnus Bradbury had some good carries (5). | SNS Group / SRU