Craig Chalmers reveals cancer diagnosis as Scotland 1990 Grand Slam hero urges men to get checked

Former Scotland fly-half receiving treatment after early diagnosis

Former Scotland player Craig Chalmers has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Pic: Jamie McDonald /Allsport

Craig Chalmers, the former Scotland international rugby player and coach, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

The 55-year-old from Galashiels revealed that he had been suffering no symptoms but that his cancer was detected early thanks to routine tests as he urged men of a similar age to get checked.

Chalmers earned 60 caps for Scotland, contributing 166 points, and was fly-half during the famous 1990 Grand Slam victory in the Five Nations at the age of just 21.

He also made one appearance for the British & Irish Lions while his club career started at Melrose and included stints with Borders Reivers, Edinburgh Rugby, Glasgow Warriors, Harlequins and Worcester Warriors.

He retired in 2005 and went onto coach Melrose and Scotland Under-20s, as well as English teams Chinnor and Esher.

Chalmers posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, to reveal his cancer diagnosis.

“It’s been a tough 7 weeks going through all the PSA blood tests, MRI scans & biopsy,” he wrote. “Sadly I found out on Wednesday I have prostate cancer but I have got it early & it’s contained in the prostate. My advice to men over 50 is to get tested asap as I had no symptoms.”

A message from the official Scottish Rugby account replied: “Everyone at Scottish Rugby is behind you, Craig. Wishing you a speedy recovery.”