Hamish Watson had no idea he was going to be named Guinness Six Nations Player of the Championship, and was surprised by teammate Stuart Hogg on a call to break the news.
The 29-year-old thought it was a routine media Zoom call, until Scotland skipper Hogg entered the fray to break the news to Watson, who dominated the fans’ poll for the award by claiming 35% of over 125,000 votes cast.
The flanker saw off esteemed competition to win the award, including 2020 winner Antoine Dupont of France, Louis Rees-Zammit and Taulupe Faletau of Wales, and Ireland duo Robbie Henshaw and Tadhg Beirne.
Hogg – who won the accolade in 2016 and 2017 – was delighted to break the news to his teammate, who put in some incredible performances for Gregor Townsend’s side in 2021, including helping Scotland claim a first victory on English soil in 38 years in Round 1.
“I just want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on winning the Guinness Six Nations Player of the Championship for 2021 – congrats mate,” Hogg said.
“Absolutely outstanding mate, I’m chuffed to bits for you, I was asked to come on to present this to you and I was absolutely buzzing to hear the news – I’m so chuffed for you.
“You’ve been absolutely outstanding, not just this year but you’ve been outstanding for the last few years – one of our best players and honestly mate I’m so happy for you, many congratulations.”
Watson caught the eye in all of Scotland’s matches in the 2021 Championship, missing just 14 minutes of action throughout, and claimed a Player of the Match award in a 52-10 victory over Italy in Round 5.
The flanker scored a try in the 27-24 defeat to Ireland in Round 4 and provided one try assist as well as carrying 67 times for 321 metres, while he successfully made every single tackle of his 55 in defence.
On receiving the award, Watson said: “I’m very surprised, obviously loads of top players were up for the award. I think when you do win something like that, it’s full credit to the team I’m in as well and to all of the guys who have won it previously.
“It shows what good teams you’re playing for. The Scotland team we’re all playing in at the moment is a great team and we really believe we can achieve things in the next few years.
“We think we’re heading in the right direction and full credit to the whole team, because without them, boys can’t win these personal accolades.”
