Rory Sutherland insists he can shine for Scotland after off-field upheaval

Sign up to our free sport newsletter for all the latest news on everything from cycling to boxing Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Rory Sutherland is adamant he can still perform a starting role for Scotland as the embattled former British and Irish Lion outlined his renewed sense of contentment on and off the field ahead of Sunday’s Guinness Six Nations showdown with Ireland. A big factor has been the impressive form of Pierre Schoeman since the South Africa-born Edinburgh prop became eligible for Gregor Townsend’s team in late 2021, but the Glasgow forward made a big impact as he came on for the last half-hour to help the Scots regain control and close out a 31-19 win at home to Italy on Saturday. Whatever opportunities come my way, I’ll be ready to take them.” Sutherland’s Scotland situation has not been helped by the fact he has struggled for sustained momentum at club level since his Lions involvement. So, yeah, I’m in a good place.” Scotland have lost their last 10 matches against Ireland and Sutherland, who has won 38 caps in total, believes a victory on Sunday – for the first time since February 2017 – would serve as a huge boost to his side.