Miller ready for season to begin

The back-rower was at the heart of the action at Old Anniesland on Friday night, captaining a youthful Glasgow squad for the visit of English heavyweights Bath in the Cairnhill Pre-Season Friendly.

Whilst a vastly experienced Bath squad ensured the scoreline went against Miller’s men, it’s an experience that the 30-year-old believes will only serve the squad in good stead as they move into the thick of competitive action.

“I think that’s the real positive at Glasgow – we’ve got plans in place for when we’ve got 20-25 internationals away,” said Miller.

“We’re trying to keep everything as consistent as possible. We’ve got periods in the season that myself and other guys in the building have to step up and really put their best foot forward, so it’s about trying to keep the same messaging and the same motivations when we get an opportunity.

“Franco’s massive on training standards and we always put together good training weeks, so if we can build a bit of momentum going through the season it’s all happy days. I think that’s where Franco does a brilliant job with exposing youngsters at the right time and getting everyone up to speed, because you’ve got to take your shot when you get it.

“Equally, the youngsters are always putting their hand up, which is exciting, and our training levels are driving the whole team forward.”

With pre-season now at an end, a stern test awaits the Warriors in round one, as Smith’s squad travels to Thomond Park for the first time since their 2024 semi-final victory over Munster.

An electric atmosphere lies in store in Limerick on Saturday evening – and it’s an atmosphere that Miller and his team-mates are already relishing.

“We’ll go back to the grind this week, refresh the bodies and we’ll drip feed these national boys that have had a good break over the summer back in as well,” he said.

“It’s absolutely brilliant. You want these big games over the season. It’s going to be an exciting campaign, so we’re looking forward to it.”