SCOTLAND OUT-HALF Finn Russell will not play against Ireland in their Six Nations opener in two weekends’ time after being disciplined for breaking a “team protocol”.
The disciplinary breach occurred during Scotland’s pre-Six Nations camp in Edinburgh, according to the Scottish Rugby Union.
Russell has been sent back to his club side, Racing 92.
It is a major blow for Gregor Townsend’s side so close to their clash with Ireland, with 27-year-old Russell a central figure for the Scots at out-half.
In his absence, Glasgow playmaker Adam Hastings is set to wear Scotland’s number 10 shirt.
“Stand-off Finn Russell will play no further part in preparations for Scotland’s Six Nations opener against Ireland, having been disciplined for a breach of team protocol during the week’s camp in Edinburgh. He has returned to his club,” reads the brief statement from a Scotland team spokesperson.
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