Scotland call on big Warrior

Glasgow Warriors lock Tom Ryder has been added to Scotland's squad for the opening two matches of their Six Nations campaign after Fraser McKenzie suffered an arm injury playing for Sale Sharks against Brive on Thursday.

The 26-year-old was born in England and represented the country at youth level but qualifies for Scotland through his father.

Ryder joined Glasgow Warriors from English Premiership club Saracens on a permanent basis last year after a successful loan period and has since become a key member of their forward pack.

"I'm delighted and proud to have received the call-up to the squad," Ryder said.

"First and foremost, my focus is on helping Glasgow Warriors win Saturday's massive European Cup match in Bath, but I'm really looking forward to joining up with the rest of the Scotland squad, putting in a lot of hard work and challenging for a place."

Scotland head coach Andy Robinson, whose side kick-off their Six Nations campaign against England at Murrayfield on February 4, added: "It's a blow for Fraser but I've always stressed the importance of performing on Scotland A duty and consistently for your club. Tom has done this and deserves this chance."

AFP