The Doddie Weir match ball delivery is voted Greatest Murrayfield Moment
Doddie Weir’s emotional match ball delivery at Murrayfield in 2017 has been voted the greatest moment in the stadium’s 100-year history, after thousands of fans took part in a nationwide poll.
Article Source: Scottish Gas Murrayfield
Last Updated: 14 November 2025 11:24
Doddie Weir’s emotional match ball delivery captures nation’s imagination and voted Murrayfield’s Greatest Moment
The former Scotland lock’s walk onto the pitch – wearing his trademark tartan suit and flanked by his sons Hamish, Angus, and Ben – was chosen as Scottish Gas Murrayfield’s defining moment, taking 54.5% of the vote. The result was announced ahead of Scotland’s Autumn Test against Argentina on Sunday (November 16).
It finished ahead of Scotland’s iconic Grand Slam triumph over England in 1990 (42.8%) and the record crowd of more than 130,000 who watched Scotland defeat Wales in 1975.
The three moments were shortlisted by a panel of Scottish rugby icons – Sir Ian McGeechan, Chris Paterson, Mike Blair and Dee Bradbury – from hundreds of fan nominations submitted as part of the Murrayfield Memories campaign. The project marks the stadium’s centenary year by inviting supporters to share their stories, photographs and memories of a century of sport and spectacle.
Doddie’s appearance on November 18, 2017 came just months after the 61-cap Scotland and British & Irish Lions forward revealed his diagnosis with motor neuron disease (MND). He died in November 2022 after living with the condition for more than six years.
Weir, who represented Scotland between 1990 and 2000 and toured South Africa with the Lions in 1997, was one of the sport’s most beloved figures, celebrated as much for his humour and humanity as for his performances on the field.
His walk before a sell-out crowd of 67,000 – carrying the match ball ahead of Scotland’s Test against New Zealand, which the All Blacks narrowly won 22–17 – has since become one of the most powerful and unifying moments in Scottish sporting history.
Sir Ian McGeechan, who coached Scotland to their Grand Slam victory over England on 17 March 1990 and played in the 1975 ‘record crowd’ match against Wales, said the sight of Weir on the pitch that day “went far beyond sport – bigger than rugby itself.”
Former Scotland captain Mike Blair, who served as assistant coach during the 2017 Test, described it as ‘the most emotional moment I’ve ever experienced at Murrayfield’.
The match ball delivery also marked the launch of Weir’s charity, My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, which has since committed almost £20 million to pioneering MND research projects with the aim of achieving Doddie’s legacy – a world free of MND.
His widow, Kathy Weir, said: “Doddie had the honour of wearing the thistle at Murrayfield and winning 35 of his 61 caps there for the national team. He also played in the inaugural Rugby World Cup Sevens there in 1993, so Murrayfield will always be a truly special place for us.
“That was underlined, too, when Doddie had retired as a player. He loved mixing with people and leapt at the chance to meet folk and have a right laugh as he hosted hospitality at the stadium for many years.
“To hear that supporters have described the match ball presentation he did with Hamish, Angus, and Ben before the game against New Zealand in 2017 as their favourite memory in the stadium’s 100th year is incredibly humbling.”
His eldest son Hamish, 24, said the result reflected ‘how people felt in that moment’.
He added: “Rugby is a sport for everyone, and Dad’s spirit shone far beyond the field. He connected with people on a human level, and they loved him for that.”
Angus, 23, said: “Working with dad’s charity, My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, we continue to strive to support those battling MND and their families and friends who are confronted by the reality that there is currently no cure for the condition.
“When he brought the match ball on that day, it also marked the launch of the Foundation, and we take great pride in what that moment began.”
Youngest brother Ben, 21, said: “Thanks to everyone who voted. I’m sure Dad would be proud to know how that moment captured people’s hearts and celebrated what rugby is all about.”
Former Scotland captain John Barclay, who led the team that day, said he “underestimated just how powerful” the moment would be. He said: “Playing for Scotland is always a privilege. That day added something beyond anything I’d experienced before or after. You could sense the energy, the emotion, the connection between Doddie and everyone in that stadium. It’s my favourite memory of Murrayfield.”
Paul Thompson, Director of Fundraising at the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, said: “Doddie’s match ball delivery in 2017 wasn’t just a great Murrayfield moment – it was the start of something huge. That day, he showed the world his trademark resilience and humour, turning the toughest of diagnoses into a mission to do something about it.
“It lit up Murrayfield and marked the beginning of a movement that inspired research, gave hope to people living with MND, and continues to drive us forward every single day. We’re grateful for the rugby community’s incredible support.”
Graham Law, Scottish Rugby’s Head of Stakeholder Engagement, said the response to the Murrayfield Memories campaign had been “heart-warming.”
He said: “The incredible response shows just how much Scottish Gas Murrayfield means to people across Scotland. Yes, we are the home of Scottish Rugby, never more evocatively than Grand Slam games in 1925,1984 and 1990 and that world-record attendance in 1975.
“But what’s special about the winning moment is that it transcended the game itself. It reminded everyone that Murrayfield’s influence extends way beyond sport – it’s about community, compassion and a shared experience that touches an entire nation and the millions with Scottish heritage the world over.”
The 1975 Scotland v Wales Five Nations clash, played on March 1, attracted what was then a world record crowd, officially listed as 104,000, but reckoned by those who were there as more than 130,000. Scotland won 12–10 in a dramatic finish.
Fifteen years later, on 17 March 1990, Scotland defeated England 13–7 to seal their third and most recent Grand Slam – arguably Scotland’s greatest ever on-field achievement – a game remembered for massive moments including David Sole’s slow walkout and Tony Stanger’s decisive try.
Another contender that featured in the panel’s deliberations was Scotland’s 1984 Grand Slam, also on 17 March, which saw Scotland pip France 21-12, courtesy of a late Jim Calder try, Scotland’s second Grand Slam, coming 59 years after their first.
The Murrayfield Memories campaign celebrates a century of Scotland’s national stadium through the voices of fans who have filled it – from Grand Slam triumphs to concerts by the likes of David Bowie, Tina Turner, and Taylor Swift.
For more on Murrayfield Memories, visit scottishrugby.org/murrayfieldmemories
Sponsored Links
Latest Glasgow News
Mowgli Street Food Introduces the new 600 calorie Lite Tiffin
Healthy, hearty and great value at just £15 per person - Mowgli's new Lite Tiffin launches this January.
READ MORE
Return to Middle Earth as The Lord of The Rings Trilogy celebrates its 25th anniversary at Vue
One of the most iconic and beloved fantasy trilogies of all time, The Lord of The Rings, is returning to the big screen at Vue venues across Scotland, as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.
READ MORE
Scottish actor Joe McFadden to lead acclaimed stage adaptation of The Shawshank Redemption at the Theatre Royal Glasgow
The Theatre Royal Glasgow is delighted to announce that The Shawshank Redemption, the acclaimed stage adaptation of Stephen King's 1982 novella, will come to the venue in March!
READ MORE
16.5 million visits make 2025 best year yet for Silverburn
Silverburn has welcomed a record 16.5 million visits over the past year, marking 2025 as its busiest year to date and underlining its status as Scotland's leading shopping and leisure destination.
READ MORE
Scottish Ensemble spotlights future string stars with Musical Encounters
Scottish Ensemble begins an exciting 2026 with the return of their Young Artist programme, helping to develop the next generation of Scotland's young string players.
READ MORE
Celebrate love with your PAWfect Valentine at Dobbies Garden Centres
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting pet parents to celebrate Valentine's Day with their beloved furry friends in selected stores across the country!
READ MORE
Primary schools in Scotland given chance to win specifically curated Burns Supper from Aldi
Aldi Scotland is giving primary school pupils across Scotland the chance to enjoy a truly traditional Burns Supper, complete with all the trimmings, including a bagpiper.
READ MORE
Glasgow International Comedy Festival launches 2026 programme with over 100,000 tickets on sale
Glasgow International Comedy Festival has announced the full programme for 2026's event with 560 shows in 40 venues across the city from 11th - 29th March, and over 100,000 tickets now on sale!
READ MORE
Glasgow Film Festival 2026 to open with UK Premiere of Everybody To Kenmure Street
A documentary about one of Scotland's most spontaneous and successful acts of civil resistance in recent memory will open Glasgow Film Festival's 22nd edition on 25th February!
READ MORE
Celebrate Burns Night 2026 at Flight Club
If you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Burns Night this year, head to Flight Club!
READ MORE
Calling all Gingers!
The IRN-BRU Carnival is showing appreciation to any fellow fiery headed pals by offering a bonus ride voucher to anyone visiting with ginger hair on Sunday 11th January!
READ MORE
Everything you need to know about Celtic Connections 2026
The renowned festival which every year transforms Glasgow in January into a must-visit destination for music lovers is now just over a week away.
READ MORE
Zizzi launches their January Birthday Jackpot
Zizzi's January Birthday Jackpot guarantees a special gift for adults born in January, with some lucky birthday guests receiving the jackpot prize - £100 towards their bill!
READ MORE
Litter picking dog charity aims to remove 44 million pieces of rubbish in 2026
Dog owners making an environmental New Year Resolution are hoped to boost the ranks of the Paws On Plastic charity to over 30,000 in 2026!
READ MORE
Full casting announced for Legally Blonde: The Musical
Full casting has been announced for Legally Blonde: The Musical which will have its Scottish premiere at The King's Theatre Glasgow in April!
READ MORE
Brand new craft event encourages mindfulness, creativity and relaxation
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to an afternoon of creativity, connection, and cake this January, with a brand-new Crafternoon Tea Club.
READ MORE
Famous faces share their DofE Award memories in celebration of their 70th anniversary
Anyone with a connection to The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is being invited to celebrate the charity's 70th anniversary by sharing their fondest DofE memories.
READ MORE
Silverburn expands leisure offering with new Pilates studio
Silverburn guests can kick-start their 2026 wellness journey with the arrival of the first Haus of Pilates studio.
READ MORE
Dry or Try January: Flight Club is your go to January social spot
Whether you're ditching the booze and going dry for a month or embracing Try January with the goal of experiencing new things, Flight Club, ticks all the boxes!
READ MORE
Christmas has come early! Glasgow youngster wins the entire DreamToys list in national competition
One very lucky youngster from Glasgow has been crowned the winner of an incredible festive giveaway – taking home all 15 toys featured on this year's coveted DreamToys list.
READ MORE
Christmas has arrived in Glasgow, The IRN BRU Carnival returns for its 106th year
Europe's largest indoor fun fair, The IRN-BRU Carnival, has opened to the public at Glasgow's SEC with its greatest show to date!
READ MORE
The River Inn launches dream wedding reception giveaway worth thousands
One lucky couple to win a luxury wedding reception for up to 100 guests... completely free!
READ MORE
Christmas Carol Goes Wrong crashes into the Kings Theatre Glasgow
Multi-award winning company Mischief return to the King's Theatre Glasgow with their new stage show – Christmas Carol Goes Wrong!
READ MORE
Christmas drawing by 11 year old Glasgow schoolgirl lights up the city
An 11-year-old Glasgow schoolgirl has seen her Christmas drawing light up the city after it was transformed into a glowing display as part of this year’s festive light trail.
READ MORE
Scottish Doctor Who actor to lead The Woman in Black at the Theatre Royal Glasgow
PW Productions is delighted to announce casting for Susan Hill's The Woman in Black, as it returns to the Theatre Royal Glasgow.
READ MORE
Scottish dancer to appear in The Red Shoes in first tour stop in Glasgow
The King's Theatre, Glasgow is delighted to reveal the full cast and tour dates for Matthew Bourne's double Olivier award-winning, smash hit production of The Red Shoes.
READ MORE
Braehead Shopping Centre is your place for festive fashion, food and fun this Christmas
Christmas is in full swing at Braehead Shopping Centre, and Scotland's leading retail and leisure destination is once again the place to celebrate the magic of the festive season!
READ MORE
Solasta Residence supports Beatson Cancer Charity through festive giving tree initiative
Solasta Residence in Glasgow has launched its first Giving Tree in support of Beatson Cancer Charity.
READ MORE
The Pavilion Theatre, Glasgow unveils exciting new programme for 2026
The Pavilion Theatre Glasgow is set to light up 2026 with a thrilling year of music, theatre and comedy.
READ MORE
Wingstop UKI opens its doors at Silverburn
Leading retail and leisure destination, Silverburn, has turned up the heat on its dining line-up with the official opening of Wingstop UKI, bringing even more flavour and choice to guests.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links