Scotland lock Grant Gilchrist has been ruled out of the rest of the Rugby World Cup after sustaining a groin injury on Sunday.
Gilchrist, who missed both the 2014 autumn internationals and this year’s RBS 6 Nations with a broken arm, left the field in the first-half of Scotland’s 39-16 win against USA.
Tries from Sean Maitland, WP Nel, Matt Scott, Duncan Weir and Tim Visser led Vern Cotter’s side to the top of Pool B, after they had begun the tournament with a 45-10 victory over Japan.
Next up is a clash with South Africa on Saturday and, as well as missing Gilchrist, Scotland could be left sweating over the fitness of fly-half Finn Russell.
Scottish Rugby said: “Gilchrist sustained the soft tissue damage in the 19th minute of the national team’s 39-16 win over USA yesterday, with the recovery period expected to extend beyond the competition.
“Finn Russell has sustained an inversion injury to his ankle, which will require further care and assessment.
“A number of other players will require the ongoing care of the national medical team however these are not considered an immediate concern.”
Gilchrist, meanwhile, tweeted: “Devastated. Big thanks for the support. All the best to the boys for the rest of the tournament #AsOne #RWC2015”.
A replacement is due to be called into the squad shortly.
