Head coach Andy Robinson believes matches against Ireland and Italy next year will provide Scotland with the perfect preparation for their 2011 Rugby World Cup campaign.
Ireland and Italy will visit Murrayfield on 6 August and 20 August respectively ahead of Scotland’s first game in New Zealand against a yet to be determined play-off winner in Invercargill on 10 September.
But with ten international matches before the start of the tournament, Robinson insists talk of the World Cup should subside and all focus must be on the impending autumn internationals against New Zealand, South Africa and Samoa.
He said: “I am pleased that we are able to confirm these fixtures. Both will provide the exact sort of intensity that will be part and parcel of a World Cup tournament.
“Inevitably there will be much talk of the World Cup over the next year but the key thing for us is to remain focused on improvement and to respect and concentrate on our opponents in our next game – and for us that’s against New Zealand in the autumn Tests at Murrayfield in November.
“The players will be determined to inspire our supporters, old and new, in these Tests and the fans have a part to play too by roaring on Scotland.”
