Scotland announce warm-ups

Ireland and Italy will play at Murrayfield ahead of World Cup

Last updated: 31st August 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Scotland announce warm-ups

Fixtures will take place at Murrayfield

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Scotland have announced fixtures against Ireland and Italy as part of their build-up to next year's World Cup in New Zealand.

The two contests will take place at Murrayfield, with Ireland visiting on August 6 and the clash against Italy taking place on August 20.

A good run of recent form has seen Andy Robinson's side rise to seventh in the IRB world rankings and the head coach is keen to test Scotland's credentials against competitive opponents.

"I am pleased that we are able to confirm these fixtures," Robinson said.

"Both will provide the exact sort of intensity that will be part and parcel of a World Cup tournament.

Focus

"Inevitably there will be much talk of the World Cup over the next year but the key thing for us is to remain focused on improvement and to respect and concentrate on our opponents in our next game - and for us that's against New Zealand in the Autumn Tests at Murrayfield in November.

"I'm looking forward to that game and our Autumn Tests against South Africa and Samoa.

"The players will be determined to inspire our supporters, old and new, in these Tests and the fans have a part to play too by roaring on Scotland."

Scotland now have 10 matches still to play before the World Cup, where they will face England, Argentina, Georgia and a yet to be determined play-off winner in Pool B.