His four-try blitz helped Scotland to a dominant victory over Fiji in the opening game of the 2024 Autumn Nations Series, displaying all the relentless pace and finishing precision that has made him one of his country's most exciting players. After almost a year out, Graham’s stats paint a picture of a player hungry to make up for lost time: not only did he score four tries, but he also carried for 86 metres - the fifth highest of any player - and beat eight defenders, more than any other player on the pitch.
"How good is that? He’s so good in the Scotland jersey, especially at Murrayfield – he just responds to the crowd," remarked head coach Gregor Townsend of Graham's one-man show. "They weren’t easy chances, he had to bounce through a few tackles, show real skill at times and a toughness. We just hope he recovers well and is available for us next week.” Graham went off for an HIA, and the rest of the nation will share Townsend's hope, especially with the Springboks lying in wait.
The 27-year-old from Hawick has now scored 28 tries, which is one fewer than Scotland's national record holder, Duhan van der Merwe, although both were briefly level on the night against Fiji after Graham's astounding eye for the line.
The Edinburgh man's route to this performance has been anything but straightforward. He had been sidelined by a persistent groin injury that kept him out of Scotland’s last two campaigns. Missing two major competitions could have been a severe setback for any athlete, but for Graham, it only fuelled his determination to come back following surgery. Reflecting on his time away, Graham recently shared that his “hunger is through the roof right now,” and his return on Saturday underscored that statement. With every darting run and spectacular finish, he reminded the Scottish faithful of his natural ability to find the line.
At 5'9", Graham has built his reputation on a sharp, elusive style, often defying his size to break tackles and find gaps where others wouldn’t dare. And he’s no stranger to overcoming odds, previously admitting that he’s always played with a chip on his shoulder, and a desire not just to make a mark but to live fully in each moment. Speaking about his philosophy, he once said, “One injury could finish your career, so it’s just about enjoying the moments and taking it a week at a time.” That mindset was evident against Fiji as he threw himself into every play, often leaving defenders grasping at thin air.
What’s more, this performance means a lot on a personal level for Graham. He has had his share of difficult times, including a near-tragic family event when his brother, Clark, was involved in a serious car crash, further reminding him to cherish each game and every moment on the field.
Graham's four-try haul places him as Scotland’s man to watch this series and underlines his value as a game-breaker capable of turning tight matches. Fans will wait in eager anticipation to see what he brings to Scotland’s backline next. But as much as his stats are impressive, what’s truly exciting about Graham’s return is his mindset: a relentless drive to be at his best, for himself, for his family, and for his country.
Watch every match of the Autumn Nations Series live on TNT Sports.
