Scotland

Coach: Ian McGeechan - Great tactician, who can devise a game-plan to beat specific opposition.

Last season: 5th. Strengths: Their traditional fast-rucking style and ability to camouflage the offside line. If they are allowed to introduce a high tempo to the match then they can cause havoc against any side. Scott Murray is a superb lineout jumper, full back Chris Paterson is probably the best counterattacking full back in the championship. Weaknesses: They lack strength in depth. If shackled up front, they don't offer a huge threat behind the scrum. Lighter than most other packs in the championship, they can be worn down physically. Halfback may be a problem area while the scrum will be under severe pressure. Key player: Scott Murray - Gifted athlete and a tremendous ball player. Is central to Scotland's hopes because they rely on him out of touch to establish a platform from which to maul. He is also a huge threat on the opposition throw. Forecast: Always at their most dangerous when written off. There is nothing to suggest that they should be anything other than moderately competitive if the European Cup is any barometer. But in the Leslie brothers, Scott Murray, Budge Pountney and Gregor Townsend, they possess players with both ability and a great fighting spirit. Could surprise but will probably finish fifth.