Cam Redpath reveals the ‘massive’ part Stuart Hogg played in his Scotland decision

England’s loss was Scotland’s gain when Cam Redpath picked the thistle over the rose and the inside centre has revealed how Stuart Hogg played a key role in his decision.

Scotland debutant Cam Redpath, front row left, says Stuart Hogg, with Calcutta Cup, had a huge role in his decision to play for Scotland. Picture: David Davies/PA

The 21-year-old enjoyed a debut to remember on Saturday to help the Scots win at Twickenham for the first time in 38 years.

Redpath delivered a performance full of confidence and poise in a match the visitors dominated.

His father, Bryan, was capped 60 times for Scotland and captained his country at the 2003 Rugby World Cup but Cam remained undecided about his international future.

Having grown up in England, he was dual qualified but Hogg appears to have been the decisive influence.

The Scotland skipper, who presented Redpath with his debut cap on Saturday night, was in regular contact with the Bath centre and his persistence paid off.

“I didn’t want to rush into any decisions, I wanted to earn it,” said Redpath, who resisted Scottish overtures in the autumn because he didn’t feel ready.

“I felt like this was the right time to come into international rugby and Hoggy was in touch quite a bit saying he felt that I could play a massive part for us.

“For me it was the right time but he also had a massive say on my decision. The way we play as a squad is enjoyable for fans and enjoyable for us. That was a massive appeal for me. This came at the right time.”

An empty Twickenham meant family and friends had to watch the 11-6 victory unfold on television but Scotland set up a Zoom call after the game to allow Bryan and other relatives to watch the cap presentation

“He and the family are absolutely buzzing so it was really nice,” said Redpath.

Cam Redpath enjoyed a winning Scotland debut against England at Twickenham. Picture: David Davies/PA

“Stuart Hogg presented the cap to me, which was pretty cool. He’s been in touch with me over the last couple of months, and he’s a massive name in Scottish rugby so for him to do it really meant a lot.”

Making his international debut against the country with whom he had previously trained would have fazed lesser mortals but Redpath played with freedom and confidence.

“I don’t get nervous. I’m quite lucky,” said Redpath, who played for England at under-20 level and was picked for Eddie Jones’ full squad for the 2018 tour of South Africa only to withdraw with injury. “It’s been my dream to play international rugby from the age of three so it’s something I’ve always wanted to do. If I get nervous I’d probably end up doing something a bit iffy, so it’s about enjoying it and taking every step as it comes.

“To be honest I didn’t expect to be starting. I came here to earn my spot.

“A huge part of my decision to come up and play for Scotland was that I wanted to earn it, deserve it and feel like I had played well enough to be on the international stage.

“I needed to feel like I’d trained well enough, get the calls right and get to know the lads. It worked out well and hopefully I can push on, train well and be in contention to start again.”

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