Scotland centre Chris Harris itching for another crack at the Springboks

Scotland’s Chris Harris is itching to get another crack at the Springboks again after tasting defeat during this year’s British and Irish Lions tour.

The centre was one of eight Scotland internationals involved in the Lions’ 2-1 series loss in South Africa in July and August. 

Healing Lions’ wounds

Scotland coach Gregor Townsend and defence chief Steve Tandy were also among Warren Gatland’s backroom staff. 

“I’d love to get another crack at the Springboks,” Harris said Wednesday.

“Losing the third Test was obviously a disappointing finish to an amazing tour, so to have another opportunity to play against them will be amazing.

“I’d like to think what I learnt about South Africa in the summer can help me this weekend… Gregor and Steve were involved as well, so I think we’re pretty ready with regard to what to expect this week.”

Scotland are on a roll after beating Australia 15-13 at Murrayfield last Sunday, the day after the Springboks launched their European tour with a hard-fought 23-18 win over Wales at a sodden Principality Stadium in Cardiff.

“They’re obviously a decent outfit and they had a hard-fought win over Wales recently so it’s going to be a tough test,” said Harris, who plays his club rugby with Gloucester in the English Premiership.

“It will be slightly different to what we faced against Australia but we’ve got enough experience in the squad and the right coaching group to put us in a good place for Saturday.”

Scotland want perfect window

Scotland, who had away wins against England and France in the 2021 Six Nations, host Japan, who beat them at the 2019 World Cup on November 20 in their final match of the window.

“There’s a great deal of confidence in the squad,” said Harris. “We’ve obviously had a pretty decent last 10 months where we’ve been really starting to perform.

“That, coupled with various boys going away on the Lions tour and getting experience from there to bring into this campaign, has been massive.”

Townsend is due to name his side to play South Africa on Thursday, with the Springboks having already announced their team.