The Battle of Bannockburn is remembered as the pivot point in the First War of Scottish Independence, an English infantry of greater masses and might sent decisively into retreat to lay the foundations for the eventual restoration of the Kingdom of Scotland. Of late, the pair’s rugby rivalry has experienced just as dramatic and decisive a swing. In more than a century of Calcutta Cup conflict, Scottish hands have never held on to the silver spoils for longer than the 1,477 consecutive days they will have had possession by the time they take to the Twickenham turf on Saturday.
Since Gregor Townsend’s appointment as head coach, Scotland have lost just once in seven meetings with their Auld Enemy; with fly-half Finn Russell on the pitch, as he will be this weekend after coming through return-to-play protocols, they are unbeaten in that time. From four wins in 30 years to four in four – even Robert the Bruce didn’t enjoy such sustained success.
