Scotland were forced into a late reshuffle against Australia after Sione Tuipulotu was ruled out just over an hour before kick-off because of a knee injury. It was a significant blow for Gregor Townsend, who had already seen one of his star performers and biggest leaders on the pitch receive physio treatment at yesterday's captain's run.
The timing mattered as much as the absence. Tuipulotu was set to be central to Scotland in their fifth Nations Championship match, but his withdrawal left Townsend having to make a quick change to the backline before the Wallabies match got under way.
Townsend turns to Tom Jordan
Before kick-off, Townsend moved Tom Jordan from the bench to play at inside centre and named Stafford McDowall on the bench. That was the immediate solution, and it showed how much Scotland value having cover ready when a late injury hits a key player.
Tuipulotu has been one of Scotland's main leaders, so losing him at that stage is never ideal. The adjustment also changes the tone of the contest, because inside centre is one of the positions where organisation and calm decision-making matter most.
Darge takes over the captaincy
With Tuipulotu out, Rory Darge captained Scotland in the match. That keeps a leadership presence on the field, but it does not remove the disruption caused by losing a 29-year-old who has been so important to the group.
Scotland will now hope the reshuffle does not unsettle the rest of their performance. For Townsend, the key issue is not only the late injury itself, but how quickly the side can adapt once the game starts and the pressure rises. The full story of that change is reflected in the pre-match team news, including the update that Blair Kinghorn and Darcy Graham start for Scotland against Australia in Nations Championship clash — Scotland Vs Australia.
