Gregor Townsend Admits He Never Felt He Could Beat All Blacks as Player, Seeks First Scotland Win as Coach

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has candidly admitted that as a player he never believed he could beat New Zealand, but as a coach he is determined to end Scotland's winless run against the All Blacks. Townsend, who faced the All Blacks during his playing career, reflected on the psychological barrier that has historically hindered Scottish teams against the three-time world champions. Now, as Scotland prepares for a crucial autumn Test, Townsend is leaving no stone unturned, even seeking high-ball advice from Australia to counter New Zealand's aerial threats. The All Blacks have never lost to Scotland in 31 meetings, a record that Townsend is desperate to break. With a squad featuring the likes of Finn Russell and Duhan van der Merwe, Scotland believes this could be their best chance yet. Townsend's innovative approach, including cross-code collaboration, signals a new era of Scottish ambition. The question remains whether tactical preparation can overcome decades of All Black dominance.