Scotland’s Richie Gray has been ruled out of the upcoming summer tour matches against Italy, Australia and Fiji.
Gray suffered a back injury as well as illness and the injury problems do not stop there for Scotland as Sam Hidalgo-Clyne has also had to pull out due to a hamstring injury picked up in training.
Hidalgo-Clyne was called into the squad as replacement for captain Greig Laidlaw following his call up to the British & Irish Lions squad.
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Edinburgh scrum-half Sean Kennedy has been named as the replacement for Hidalgo-Clyne.
New Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend also expressed his disappointment on the duo’s absence and wished them a speedy recovery.
“Richie has been unable to do much training since the RBS 6 Nations because of his back issues so it became quickly evident he wouldn’t be able to play Test match rugby this summer.
“It was valuable having him in camp last week, spending time with the new coaching group, and we wish him well with his recovery and getting back to full fitness for next season.
“We’re all disappointed for Sam who came into camp full of enthusiasm and worked really hard in our first three days together.
“While it’s a blow for him to miss the tour, at least his injury isn’t too serious and he can get back into pre-season with Edinburgh at a later date.
“It’s great that we have been able to call up a quality replacement in Sean Kennedy and we look forward to working with him over the next couple of weeks.
“His passing ability and conditioning level will fit in very well with the rugby we aspire to play.”
