Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend is determined to stick with his attacking approach after signing a contract extension until April 2026.
Townsend, 50, has been in charge since 2017 and his previous deal was due to expire after this autumn’s World Cup.
Scotland finished third in the Six Nations and have risen to their highest place of fifth in the world rankings.
“We’re getting more success with an attacking style and that’s exciting,” said Townsend.
“In rugby generally, attacking teams are getting more success. That’s the way we’re going to play. It suits our strengths and our chances of winning games.”
Townsend did admit to thinking his time with the national side may be coming to an end. He also revealed that he had received “a couple of approaches” about other positions.
“There weren’t any decisions to make until there was a contract offer,” he explained.
“Not being able to make that choice was the difficult part, but me and the coaches focused on the rugby side of it.
“It was so busy with the November Tests going into the Six Nations. There were a couple of approaches at that time but the Six Nations was on the horizon, so there wasn’t any chance I was going to commit to something before that.
“Then the positive was that during the Six Nations discussions started to happen between Scottish Rugby and myself.
“I love the job. You get ups and downs, good times and bad times. I feel a real sense of purpose.
“I think the team have got more to give. We have the players to take on the best in the world.
“I also feel the connection the team has with the country is special and that our supporters are backing the team like never before.
“The number of people who arrive two hours early to welcome the team off the bus on a home matchday demonstrates the love shown for this group of players and their belief that the squad can achieve something special.”
Townsend can take Scotland to ‘next level’
Scottish Rugby Union chief executive Mark Dodson had declared himself “pleased but not delighted” with a Six Nations that included three wins and defeats to the world’s top two sides, Ireland and France.
However, when announcing the new deal, Dodson spoke of “continuity and forward momentum”.
“The squad has unparalleled depth which is the result of many years planned development,” he said.
“We believe Gregor is best placed to take the team to the next level and continue to excite and engage the people of Scotland.”
Scotland exited the World Cup at the group stage four years ago and face a very tough task in France, having been drawn in the same pool as Ireland and defending champions South Africa.
Source : BBC
