Vern Cotter extends Scotland deal

Vern Cotter has extended his Scotland contract until 2017 in a major show of faith from the Scottish Rugby Union ahead of the World Cup.

Despite presiding over a disappointing first RBS 6 Nations campaign as Scotland lost every game, the SRU announced it has extended Cotter’s initial deal by a further year, three days before Scotland start their World Cup warm-up campaign against Ireland in Dublin.

Cotter said : "I'm really happy to be able to continue working with the players, the organisation, the board, and everyone involved.

"There are some talented players with some things to develop, and together we are focused on facing that challenge in what I think are exciting times for Scottish rugby all over."

Cotter became Scotland coach in May last year and his reign began with an overseas tour of the United States, Canada, Argentina, and South Africa in which Scotland won three out of four.

Further wins against Argentina and Tonga followed in the Autumn Tests but things quickly turned sour as Scotland lost five out of five in the Six Nations earlier this year, leading to suggestions that Cotter could make a swift exit back to French club rugby.

However, he is now firmly focused on the upcoming World Cup, with Scotland drawn against South Africa, Samoa, Japan and the United States in Pool B.

"The culture of rugby is strong in this country and it's important that passion is reflected in the performances of the national team," Cotter said.

 "We take great pride in the honour that represents and, while it's pleasing to be in a position to plan longer term, our focus is absolutely fixed on preparing for the Rugby World Cup."