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Blair Kinghorn has played three times for Toulouse since leaving Edinburgh last month
A move to Toulouse has given Blair Kinghorn “a new perspective on rugby” and the full-back believes Scotland may need a new approach to succeed.
After an early exit from the World Cup, Scotland begins their Six Nations season in Wales on February 3rd.
Scotland, who won three games last year, have not won in Cardiff since 2002.
“It’s an opportunity to showcase our growth and show we’re ready to compete with the best,” Kinghorn told ` Scotland.
“The squad strength we have is perhaps the highest. I don't think there is a problem with self-confidence. The next step we need to take is to win big games.”
“We have a very attacking style and that works in certain games, but in big friendlies we may have to rely on a different part of our game.”
“We have to learn from wins and keep the momentum going. Cardiff is a difficult destination but it’s an exciting challenge.”
Scotland failed to progress from a tough World Cup pool after defeats to South Africa and Ireland, who are heavy favorites to defend their Six Nations title.
“It was very disappointing, not the World Cup we wanted,” Kinghorn said. “It will keep us all busy until we have played a few games for Scotland again.”
“I think this move here has helped, it has given me a fresh start – a new perspective on rugby.”
Pressure to perform with Toulouse
The 26-year-old has played three times since joining Toulouse, enjoying three wins and two tries on his debut.
“It definitely brings pressure,” he said of his new environment. “People expect you to win. You rarely go into a game as an underdog.”
“So there’s more of an expectation to go out and win – and also entertain the fans. If you’re not quite at that level, people are disappointed.”
Toulouse, the reigning Top 14 champions and five-time European Cup winners, boast a star-studded squad including French stars Thomas Ramos and Antoine Dupont.
“They are both world-class and very first-class players,” Kinghorn said of his new teammates. “Every training session reflects how they play on the weekend. Their commitment to the game is incredible and it is a privilege to play with them.”
“They can surprise you sometimes when they make something out of nothing and you have to react.
“I've settled in quite well. I had a lot of fun with the club.”
“The atmosphere at all the games is absolutely crazy and we played some good rugby, with a clear advantage at line changes. It’s a style of rugby that I enjoy playing and when I think I’m at my best.”
“It is always a difficult decision to move away from home. I was born and bred in Edinburgh but from a rugby perspective it would be foolish not to take the opportunity when one of the biggest clubs in the world comes calling.”
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