In a bold move that's set to shake up the rugby scene, Scottish Rugby has successfully poached the Mackenzie twins, Josh and James, from South Africa's Kingswood College. The duo is slated to join the Glasgow Warriors Academy post their matriculation exams this December, adding a fresh layer of intrigue to the ongoing talent migration in global rugby.
The twins, who are finishing their schooling and starring in the 1st XV at Kingswood in Makhanda, have the rugby world buzzing with their impending transition. Avid rugby followers have noted their qualifications for Scotland through their paternal grandparents, an angle that Scottish Rugby has cleverly capitalized on. Earlier this year, the pair even trained with Glasgow during a session in Johannesburg, hinting at the potential move.
Josh and James bring distinct skills to the table. James, a versatile utility back, and Josh, who has shown his prowess in the loose trio and as a lock, have both been key figures in their school team. Josh, in particular, has notched up impressive accolades, representing Eastern Province at the U18 Craven Week in 2024 and 2025, and snagging SA Schools U18 honors under the guidance of former Kingswood coach James Winstanley.
Their connection to Scotland is not just through lineage but also through prior exposure. As part of an exchange program with Kingswood, the twins spent two fruitful months at Glenalmond College in Perthshire. This stint included exploratory visits to Edinburgh and Glasgow, where they reportedly met with Scottish Rugby performance director David Nucifora and national talent pathway boss Kenny Murray, further solidifying their links to Scottish rugby.
"Congratulations to Kingswood College 1st XV rugby players, James and Josh Mackenzie, who have both been signed by Scottish Rugby,"
announced the school on social media, echoing the sentiments of a proud institution watching its talents ascend to international heights.
The narrative of South African talent moving abroad continues to evoke mixed feelings, with calls from various quarters, like coach Wessels, for compensation to local schools nurturing these future stars. The departure of the Mackenzie twins is another chapter in this ongoing saga, underscoring the global battle for rugby talent and the strategic moves that define it.