Scotland call-up four players to Six Nations squad after injury concerns

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has called up four players in the squad for the upcoming Six Nations after injury concerns to several players.

Uncapped duo Luke Crosbie and Matt Smith along with experienced Alex Dunbar and Rob Harley are now part of the revised squad that will be in contention for the opening game against Italy at Murrayfield Stadium on 2nd February.

First choice openside flanker Hamish Watson has been released from the squad after he sustained a fracture to his hand during Edinburgh's Heineken Champions Cup victory over Montpellier last week.

In the absence of Watson, John Hardie and Gary Graham are options for Townsend in the 39-man squad that was picked originally while Jamie Ritchie can also be used at openside with Crosbie and Smith providing cover.

Glasgow Warriors duo Jonny Gray and Ryan Wilson picked up shoulder injuries during the Champions Cup game against Saracens but is expected to be available for the tournament opener according to assistant coach Mike Blair.

Sam Johnson will undergo a return to play protocol after picking a head injury during the Allianz Park game against Saracens with Dunbar with 31 caps to his name recalled after missing out on the original squad.