Scotland confirm Richie Gray will return to Vern Cotter's coaching staff

Scotland head coach Vern Cotter has confirmed Richie Gray will return to his coaching team for the 2016 Autumn Tests and 2017 Six Nations.

Defensive contact consultant Gray was part of Cotter's backroom staff for last season's Six Nations, and will work alongside defence coach Matt Taylor in the build-up to next year's event, as well as the upcoming Tests against Australia, Argentina and Georgia in November.

Prior to his initial role with Scotland, Gray worked as South Africa's specialist breakdown coach, helping the Springboks to a third-place finish at the 2015 World Cup. 

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Scotland finished fourth in the Six Nations earlier this year, and will be looking to improve upon their two victories when the new competition kicks off in February next year - the last Six Nations Cotter will take charge of. 

The 54-year-old New Zealander has already announced he will be stepping down from his role as head coach in June 2017, and will be replaced by Glasgow Warrriors head coach Gregor Townsend.