Huw Jones to miss Autumn Nations Series; Glasgow Warriors outline timeline as Scotland eye Six Nations return
Scotland centre Huw Jones will sit out the upcoming Autumn Nations Series, dealing a significant blow to Gregor Townsend’s backline plans. Glasgow Warriors coach Nigel Carolan has expressed optimism that the influential midfielder can recover in time to be back to full fitness ahead of the Six Nations.
Why it matters for Scotland
Jones has been central to Scotland’s attacking shape in recent seasons, combining strike running with incisive support lines from midfield. His absence forces a rethink for the national setup in November, when Tier 1 opposition typically exposes depth and cohesion across the backline.
Glasgow Warriors update and timeline
While specific details of the setback were not outlined, Carolan indicated that the focus is on a measured recovery that prioritises long-term readiness over short-term risk. The intention is to have Jones reintegrate steadily with Glasgow before any Scotland return, keeping the Six Nations window in view if progress remains on track.
Selection implications and midfield options
Scotland’s midfield has featured a blend of creativity and defensive steel, with selections tailored to opposition and form. In Jones’s absence, attention naturally turns to players capable of covering the 12 and 13 jerseys and replicating his impact in different ways.
- Chris Harris: a proven defensive organiser at outside centre who brings line-speed leadership and reliability in big Test environments.
- Cameron Redpath: a ball-playing option at inside centre with distribution and kicking variety.
- Stafford McDowall: in-form at club level with a strong carrying profile and growing international credentials.
The final balance will depend on fitness, form, and how Scotland wish to structure their attack through the autumn window.
Calendar context: Autumn to Six Nations
The Autumn Nations Series traditionally runs across November, providing a key gauge of form before the Six Nations begins in early February. Targeting a full return by then gives Jones and Glasgow a realistic arc for rehabilitation, minutes management, and match sharpness, rather than accelerating a comeback into the more immediate fixtures.
What to watch next
- Rehab milestones at Glasgow Warriors and any incremental training updates.
- Scotland’s midfield selection for the autumn fixtures and how combinations evolve without Jones.
- Signs of a phased return to play ahead of final Six Nations squad decisions.
For now, the message from Glasgow remains measured but positive: protect the player through the autumn, build steadily, and aim to have one of Scotland’s most potent midfield threats ready to contribute when the 2025 Six Nations comes into view.
