Zander Fagerson Returns for Scotland After a Grueling Injury Run

After 232 days away from the field, Zander Fagerson returned for Scotland in a dominant display against Tonga, marking a long-awaited comeback after a brutal run of injuries and setbacks.

He admitted the road back was tough, with lingering fatigue as he found his rhythm again, but the relief of being back outweighed the rust he felt on return.

Challenging year and injury timeline

Fagerson’s 2025 season began with a calf issue in April while with Glasgow Warriors, disrupting the Six Nations involvement and a planned Lions tour. A second calf strain followed, then a knee problem in the gym that halted his momentum and kept him from the big stage with the Lions.

From Lions disappointment to a focused comeback

With the Lions tour missed, the Scotland prop faced a testing spell of rehab and doubt. He withdrew from the squad and stepped back to reassess his program, choosing patience and consistent work over short-term pressure.

Family support and the return to form

To escape the mental strain, he and his wife took a month-long trip with their children across Asia. The break offered perspective and fuel to return with a clearer head. When he finally came back to training, he spoke candidly about the emotional toll and the unwavering support from his family, which he said kept him grounded through the darkest days.

Back on the field: the Tonga game

Returning in the Scotland shirt, Fagerson admitted nerves but described the moment as a celebration for his family as much as himself. He acknowledged some rust but expressed determination to build up his match sharpness in the weeks ahead and contribute to the forward pack’s continued momentum.

Looking ahead for the team

With the immediate setback behind him, Fagerson aims to reclaim his best form and bring leadership and power to Scotland’s scrum as they prepare for tougher tests on the calendar.

Key Takeaways

• Resilience and steady rehabilitation can power a dramatic comeback after a year riddled with injuries.
• Family support and mental well-being play a critical role in sustaining elite athletes through protracted recoveries.
• Progress comes in stages; gradual loading and disciplined training are essential to regain peak performance.
• The return offers a lift for Scotland’s pack as they navigate a demanding schedule ahead.

Expert comment

Rugby performance analyst: Fagerson’s return underscores the importance of patient rehab and measured workload progression when bouncing back from multiple injuries. The coming weeks will test his stamina and technical sharpness at Test level.

Summary

Hitting the ground running after a tough year, Zander Fagerson showed the value of discipline, family support, and a structured comeback plan. The win over Tonga provides a platform for Scotland as they push to convert resilience into consistent results. His journey highlights how elite athletes manage setbacks with focus and a clear path forward.

Key insight: A top-level comeback hinges on resilience, support, and disciplined rehab. BBC Sport

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