PARIS – Scotland centre Huw Jones backec his side’s chances against Ireland in two weeks’ time, despite losing 32-21 to France in the Six Nations on Sunday.
Their hopes of a first Grand Slam since 1990 were ended in Paris and they host the world’s No. 1 side, unbeaten this campaign, on March 12.
“They’re playing really good rugby. They’re No. 1 in the world for a reason, but at home we back ourselves against anyone,” Jones said.
“We’ve shown we can play well at Murrayfield, that it’s a tough place to come for the away team.”
Glasgow Warriors’ Jones, 29, scored twice against Les Bleus and has started all his country’s games this year after more than 18 months away from the Test scene.
“It’s obviously been a while, so I’m just grateful to have the opportunity to be back in the shirt and play again,” the former Stormers midfielder said.
“The fact we’re playing exciting rugby is a massive thing. I got on the end of a couple of tries. I’m happy with that and where this team is going.”
He has rekindled a partnership with fly-half Finn Russell. Both were instrumental in Scotland’s 2018 home win over England.
“At times he’s got defenders on strings,” Jones said. “All options are on and when he’s able to pick the right one and play flat at the line, playing outside Finn is a dream.”
Next month, Jones could come up against 102kg Bundee Aki or 95kg Garry Ringrose at Murrayfield in the No. 13 shirt for Ireland.
Leinster’s Ringrose is a doubt for the trip to Edinburgh, having missed Saturday’s win over Italy with a calf issue.
“He (Aki) is a big lad, it could be any of their centres,” Jones added. “I don’t know how bad Ringrose’s injury is. It’s a challenge I’m really looking forward to.”
Later this year, Scotland and Ireland will meet at the Stade de France in their final pool stage match at the Rugby World Cup in a group which includes Webb Ellis trophy holders South Africa.
“The atmosphere won’t be alien to them (Ireland),” Jones said. “It’s important to get games here just to get used to it. It’s an amazing stadium, the pitch was class and the crowd was on it.”
The French meanwhile, travel to face England in two weeks before hosting Wales in Paris. They can still win the Championship but need other results over the coming month to go their way.
Lock Paul Willemse said their poor recent record at Twickenham will serve as motivation. AFP
