Scotland has been handed a significant boost ahead of the final rounds of the Six Nations as winger Darcy Graham is expected to recover in time for the closing fixtures. The Edinburgh star, who suffered a concerning head injury against Ireland, has received positive scan results, easing fears of a long-term absence.
Scare at Murrayfield as Graham Stretchered Off
The atmosphere at Murrayfield turned tense on Sunday when Darcy Graham collided with Finn Russell, leaving him motionless on the pitch. Medics rushed to his side, spending around seven minutes assessing the situation before placing him in a neck brace and stretchered him off.
Graham’s injury was initially feared to be severe, raising questions about his availability for the remainder of the Six Nations. His absence would have been a massive blow to Scotland’s ambitions, given his attacking prowess and reliability on the wing. However, the latest update has lifted spirits within the squad.
Everitt Confirms Encouraging News
Scotland assistant coach Sean Everitt has confirmed that Graham’s medical tests showed no serious damage. The winger will now enter the standard concussion return-to-play protocol, with hopes that he will be available for Scotland’s final two matches.
“He’s just going to follow his return-to-play concussion protocols as per normal, and those are taken in stages,” Everitt said. “I don’t think Darcy would be able to return to the field within 12 days, but fortunately for us the scans came back clear.”
While Graham is set to miss the crucial Calcutta Cup clash against England on February 22, he is expected to return against Wales on March 8.
Medical Staff Praised for Quick Response
Injuries like Graham’s are always unsettling, but the swift response from the medical team ensured that the situation was handled professionally and with utmost care. Everitt expressed his gratitude towards the medics, emphasizing the importance of their work.
- Graham lay on the field for over six minutes, raising immediate concerns among players and fans.
- His teammates and coaching staff watched anxiously as he was taken off for further assessment.
- The scans, however, provided relief, showing no fractures or severe trauma.
Everitt acknowledged the emotional impact of seeing a player in distress but was relieved by the outcome. “It’s never great to see a player lying on his back on the field for that long. There were scary thoughts, but well done to the medics—they did their job really well, and he’s up and about,” he added.
What Graham’s Absence Means for Scotland
Graham’s injury-enforced absence for the England match will force Scotland into a reshuffle on the wing. His attacking flair, speed, and finishing ability make him one of the team’s most valuable players. However, his likely return for the Wales fixture offers hope as Scotland aims to finish the tournament strongly.
Here’s a look at Scotland’s remaining Six Nations schedule:
| Date | Fixture | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 22 | England vs Scotland | Twickenham |
| Mar 8 | Scotland vs Wales | Murrayfield |
While his return will depend on the successful completion of concussion protocols, the news of no structural damage is a relief for Scotland’s squad and fans alike. The final rounds of the Six Nations will be pivotal, and having Graham back could be the boost Scotland needs to finish on a high note.
