Hogg: Wins in England and France count for nothing against Wales

Last year’s historic Six Nations victories away to England and France count for nothing when they take on Wales this weekend, according to Scotland captain Stuart Hogg.

The Scots banished runs of 38 years without an away win in the Calcutta Cup, and 22 years without winning in Paris during the 2021 championship.

Both matches were played behind closed doors but with capacity crowds back this time around – and 74,000 fans due at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday – Hogg warned they face a entirely different challenge at a venue where they have not won since 2002.

Hogg said: “It’s completely different. We went to two venues last year in Twickenham and Stade de France with nobody watching.

“We are coming to one of the most hostile places in world rugby.

“I’ve told the boys this week that if you haven’t been fortunate enough to play at this venue yet then you are going to get your eyes opened.

“It is one hell of an atmosphere. It is a great place to play rugby. The Welsh absolutely love supporting their teams.

“So it is a completely different challenge for us but it is one that we are very, very much looking forward to.”

Hogg made his Scotland debut away to Wales exactly ten years ago and has played a central role in Scotland’s emergence from also-rans to Six Nations contenders.

Reflecting on the growth of the national rugby team during the last decade, as he prepares to win his 90^th cap, Hogg paid tribute to the impact head coach Gregor Townsend has made since taking over from Vern Cotter in 2017.

The Exeter Chiefs full back said: “There have been some highs and some lows and over the last few years since Gregor came in we seem to have been making good progress.

“Boys are gaining valuable experience to be able to grow individually and collectively and make sure we are continually moving forward.

“This Scotland squad is the best I’ve been involved in, on and off the field and hopefully we can continue to rise as a team.

“Last week Wales probably didn’t get a chance to show what they are about and they’ll be hurting.

“But they have got an incredible squad, they are playing at home – their record here speaks volumes.

“We have prepared well, we feel we are in a good place, but it counts for nothing unless we back it up on Saturday and show a true reflection of ourselves and I know we are going to do that.”