SCOTLAND’S FIRST-CHOICE lock Grant Gilchrist will play no further part in the World Cup because of a groin injury suffered in the win over United States.
It is a serious blow to the Scots ahead of their key game on Saturday against Pool B rivals South Africa. Coach Vern Cotter also has concerns about first choice out-half Finn Russell.
The brilliant Glasgow playmaker was injured in the 60th minute, suffering “an inversion injury to his ankle, which will require further care and assessment.”
Gilchrist started both of Scotland’s bonus point wins alongside Jonny and then Richie Gray. But having hobled off after just 19 minutes of the win over the USA, he must watch Scotland try to keep hold of the Pool B driving seat from the sidelines.
The SRU has yet name a replacement for Gilchrist, but with Jim Hamilton retired Cotter could turn to Glasgow’s versatile Rob Harley to help cover second and back rows.
