Scotland kick off their Rugby World Cup 2023 campaign this afternoon with a tough test against defending champions South Africa. The Scots know a good start is key with the much-fancied Ireland also in Pool B and will have to be at their best to run out winners at the Stade Velodrome this afternoon.
The Springboks, in an ominous statement ahead of the tournament, made easy work of New Zealand in their final World Cup warm-up game, while Scotland went down narrowly to a strong France side. Victory for either team would put them in a brilliant position to qualify for the quarter-finals.
South Africa have been handed a huge boot with the return of inspirational captain Siya Kolisi, just five months after surgery. Scotland have scrum-half Ben White is fit after an injury scare. Follow the game LIVE below with our dedicated match blog as the Rugby World Cup continues in Marseille!
Live updates
55min: Scotland are shellshocked, so it’s the perfect opportunity for South Africa to bring on the Bomb Squad and a new front row.
52min: De Klerk is on kicking duties and he converts.
TRY!
50min: London buses etc etc. Libbock with a stunning kick to release Arendse on the right, and he simply runs in a second try.
TRY!
47min: It’s been coming since half-time! Power finally prevails for the Springboks as Du Toit gets over.
42min: Much better in the scrum by South Africa as Scotland are finally second-best, winning a penalty.
Second half
41min: Back underway!
I think South Africa came into the game expecting to win the physical battle. Not so.
Scotland are firmly in this. Second half to come.
Half-time
41min: Russell clears the posts to finish the half and Scotland are on the board!
39min: Scotland get the better of the scrum and win the penalty. Halfway line, Russell is going for it.
38min: It’s worked wide but there’s that South Africa defence again. White and then Schoeman try to breach it, but Marx has other ideas and it’s a knock on. South Africa scrum.
