Horne gets nod for Scotland’s clash with Italy at Murrayfield

Glasgow’s Peter Horne has been given the nod to replace suspended stand-off Finn Russell for Scotland’s RBS 6 Nations clash with Italy tomorrow.

Russell this week lost an appeal against a two-match ban for a dangerous tackle on Wales’ Dan Biggar – leaving Dark Blues head coach Vern Cotter with a dilemma over his replacement. The Kiwi had to decide between the inform duo of Horne and Edinburgh’s Greig Tonks, but it is the Warriors fly-half who has been told he will collect his seventh cap when the Azzurri visit BT Murrayfield.

Horne said: “It’s a dream come true to get this chance. I’ve never played for Scotland at Murrayfield so I’m absolutely ecstatic to get this chance.”

Horne’s inclusion is one of four changes to the side which pushed Warren Gatland’s Welshmen close.

Glasgow’s Tommy Seymour takes Tim Visser’s place on the wing while Tim Swinson comes in for injured lock Richie Gray.

Euan Murray, who missed the Wales clash for religious reasons, reclaims his place as Geoff Cross drops out.