Finn Russell can officially call himself a doctor as the Scotland star prepares to make his 100th Test appearance against the All Blacks on Saturday.

The 34-year-old will reach the milestone at Murrayfield, where Scotland are hoping to beat New Zealand for the first time.

But Russell has already picked up another impressive honour away from rugby.

And it means the former apprentice stonemason now has a rather unusual title to go with his rugby achievements.

Finn Russell officially becomes a doctor

Russell was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Stirling in November 2025 for his contribution to Scottish sport.

It was a special moment for the Bath fly-half, who grew up less than a mile from the university.

He attended Wallace High School and started his rugby career with Stirling County.

Speaking after receiving the honour, Russell said:

“Receiving an honorary degree from the University of Stirling is something that I’m extremely proud of, and it is made all the more special as someone who grew up less than a mile away in Bridge of Allan.”

His fiancée, Scottish heptathlete Emma Canning, was quick to congratulate him on Instagram.

She wrote: “You deserve every bit of recognition & more for not just your sporting achievements, but the person you are.”

Canning also saw the funny side, adding: “The doctor’s wife has a nice ring to it.”

Of course, Russell won't be swapping his rugby boots for a stethoscope anytime soon.

The doctorate is an honorary award recognising his sporting achievements, rather than a medical qualification.

From stonemason to Scotland superstar

Russell's journey to the top of international rugby has been anything but ordinary.

Before becoming a professional player, he spent three years working as an apprentice stonemason.

He went on to establish himself at Glasgow Warriors before moving to French giants Racing 92 in 2018.

Russell joined Bath in 2023 and helped the club win the Premiership title in 2025.

He has also represented the British & Irish Lions on three tours, including their victorious 2025 series against Australia.

Now one of the most recognisable names in Scottish rugby, Russell is preparing for another major milestone.

Finn Russell set for 100th Test against All Blacks

Russell has been named in Scotland's starting XV for Saturday's Nations Championship clash with New Zealand.

The appearance will be his 96th for Scotland, taking his combined international Test tally to 100 alongside four Lions caps.

However, the fly-half insists beating the All Blacks matters far more than his personal milestone.

Speaking ahead of the game, Russell said:

“It's pretty cool, but not something I've been thinking about too much.”

He added: “Beating New Zealand is definitely the goal, not the 100 caps.”

Scotland have never beaten New Zealand in 33 previous meetings, losing 31 and drawing twice.

A victory at Murrayfield would therefore give Russell the perfect way to celebrate his landmark appearance.

Finn Russell: Five quick facts

• Age: 34, born 23 September 1992.
• Former job: Spent three years working as an apprentice stonemason.
• Club career: Played for Glasgow Warriors, Racing 92 and Bath Rugby.
• Doctorate: Received an honorary doctorate from the University of Stirling in November 2025.
• International career: Set to make his 100th Test appearance, including four British & Irish Lions caps.