Ollie Leatherbarrow Earns First Scotland Call-Up for Nations Championship Tests vs New Zealand, Australia, Japan

Newcastle Falcons back row Ollie Leatherbarrow has received his first Scotland call-up for the upcoming Nations Championship fixtures against New Zealand, Australia and Japan. The uncapped forward has been rewarded for his standout club form, with head coach Gregor Townsend naming him in the squad for the high-profile autumn series. Leatherbarrow, 24, has been a consistent performer in the Gallagher Premiership, known for his physicality and work rate at the breakdown. His inclusion signals Scotland's intent to blood emerging talent ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The Scots face the All Blacks at Murrayfield on 1 November, followed by Australia on 8 November and Japan on 15 November. With several established back-row options unavailable, Leatherbarrow has a genuine chance to make his Test debut. For Newcastle, his rise is another example of the club's academy producing international-calibre players. The Nations Championship offers vital ranking points and preparation for the Six Nations, and Scotland will be eager to build on recent strong autumn campaigns. Keep an eye on Leatherbarrow's battle for the number seven jersey.