Six Nations: Midfield key to progress, believes Doddie Weir

Former cap Doddie Weir today pointed to a fragile midfield as the place where Scotland’s battle to return to RBS Six Nations winning ways starts.

“The forwards are working well together but the backs have got a little bit of work to do,” said the 61-times capped Weir in looking ahead to the visit of France on Sunday week following a 27-13 defeat by Wales in Cardiff.

He added: “The centre partnership, if that gets solidified . . . maybe we can go on and win some games which is what it is all about.”

In fact, Scotland will be hoping to get off the mark at the third attempt in this Championship and time is running out to improve on a record that has brought only one win in each of the past two seasons.

“I think Andy Robinson is the right coach but you have to question. He hasn’t got a very good record from 12 games – two victories,” said Weir of the man in overall charge, adding: “Is it through Andy [and the] coaching staff or players?”

Scotland were again undone by basic errors.

But Weir saw some sights of encouragement, telling the BBC: “The forwards were exceptional and competed very well.”