Scotland’s Six Nations slump raises questions for new era under Sione Fukofuka | Sarah Rendell

Fans may also question whether there is an emotional as well as physical hangover because of the contract uncertainty the squad has had to deal with. But it is understood the players have put that behind them now. In addition, sources from inside and outside camp say players and staff are excited by Fukofuka’s appointment and the style of rugby he wants to implement.

Sione Fukofuka has partly blamed his side’s poor form on a World Cup hangover, saying: ‘A lot of them went straight back to club rugby. There wasn’t a lot of time for them to get that reset.’ Photograph: David Gibson/Fotosport/Shutterstock

Something that has undeniably influenced their performances has been injuries to key players. Malcolm, Evie Gallagher, Emma Orr and Rachel McLachlan were among those who not available to Fukofuka for France’s visit to the Hive. Then there is the factor of stalwarts such as Jade Konkel having retired since the World Cup.

The turnover of players has allowed the team to blood new talent and give more experience to others. Rachel Philipps, on her third cap and in her first start at outside-centre, raised her hand for more game time with two tries against France. Scotland also came away with a try bonus point from the game.

Despite conceding 69 points, it was Scotland’s defensive efforts that stood out as a positive for the fly-half Helen Nelson. “We knew it was going to be tough but I think we are really proud of the defensive effort we put in,” said the Loughborough Lightning player. “We have a lot of injuries at the moment but that allows some of the younger players to step up and I think they really did that here today. The energy off the bench was unbelievable.

“The mindset and the way we kept fighting back is probably the biggest positive. We weren’t happy with our last couple of defensive performances and that is what we have been talking about, getting that fight and belief back and that is what we have shown.”

Scotland are fifth in the table and if they lose to Ireland in Dublin on Sunday without picking up a bonus point and Wales beat Italy at Cardiff Arms Park on the same day they will finish the tournament in last place. To avoid that scenario, Fukofuka’s side will have to continue with their improvements in defence against in-form opponents in Ireland, who will be playing a first stand-alone match at the Aviva Stadium. More than 20,000 spectators are expected to be present so Scotland will also have to contend with a cauldron-like atmosphere in order to finish their Six Nations campaign on a high.

Scotland have not received the wooden spoon since 2022 and they will be buoyed up by the fact they defeated Ireland in last year’s Six Nations. If they fail to overcome their Celtic rivals this time around, however, pressure may mount on the new coaching staff and the questions being asked by fans will need to be answered by those in charge with definitive solutions.