McGeechan leaves Townsend out of Scottish team

Scotland coach Ian McGeechan has picked Gordon Ross at number 10 for Sunday’s RBS 6 Nations match against Ireland ahead of the more experienced Gregor Townsend.

Ross made a name for himself in the Autumn Series and got the nod over Townsend, who will start the game on the substitutes’ bench.

Edinburgh rugby’s Brendan Laney has been moved to number 12 to accommodate Ross.

Kenny Logan makes a return to the team at number 14 after missing out on the autumn Test through lack of form.

Andrew Mower of Newcastle Falcons comes in at number seven to replace Budge Pountney, who dramatically quit the Scotland camp complaining of a lack of professionalism.

Mower has been in fine form for his club in recent weeks and was tipped by many to get a starting spot regardless of the Pountney situation.