Richie Gray and Sam Hidalgo-Clyne to miss Scotland's summer tour

Scotland duo Richie Gray and Sam Hidalgo-Clyne are ruled out of the upcoming summer tour due to injuries.

Gray suffered a back injury as well as illness while Hidalgo-Clyne, who was named as replacement for Greig Laidlaw following the Scotland skipper's inclusion in the Lions squad sustained a hamstring injury during training with the Dark Blues.

Edinburgh scrum-half Sean Kennedy has been named as the replacement for Hidalgo-Clyne as Scotland take on Italy, Australia and Fiji in their upcoming tour.

The news was confirmed by a statement released by the Scottish Rugby Union.

"Following a review from the Scotland medical team it was deemed best for the player (Gray) to return to his club for rest, recovery and rehabilitation over the summer period.

Incoming Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend also expressed disappointment on the duo 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."