Finn Russell recalled to Scotland squad ahead of Autumn Nations Series game against New Zealand on Sunday; Adam Hastings out after suffering a head injury against Fiji
Monday 7 November 2022 12:10, UK
Finn Russell has been recalled to the Scotland squad ahead of Sunday's Autumn Nations Series game against New Zealand.
The back's call comes with Adam Hastings ruled out after suffering a head injury during the 28-12 victory over Fiji at Murrayfield, while he was also having a knee issue assessed post match.
Russell was left out of the initial squad for the autumn internationals amid speculation there had been a breakdown in relations between head coach Gregor Townsend and his player.
Townsend said Russell had been omitted due to question marks over his "form and consistency" levels, with Blair Kinghorn and Hastings chosen as the two main options to play at 10.
After the Fiji game Townsend said he had not spoken to Russell since informing him last month he was not in the original squad but the head coach insisted that was not unusual.
"If people are not in the squad I don't phone them up regularly unless there's something to talk about," he said. "But I'd imagine he'd be available.
"He was disappointed not to be in the squad. If we decide to bring another 10, he'll be one of the ones we'll be looking at."
George Turner remains with Scotland as preparations continue for Sunday's game against New Zealand at Murrayfield. Scotland will then take on Argentina on the following weekend to finish their autumn campaign.
