Hogg hands Scotland major fitness boost for Fiji clash

STUART HOGG looks to have won his fitness battle and will return to the Scotland team to face Fiji on Saturday. Sportsmail understands the Glasgow Warriors full-back will be given a fitness test this morning as a precaution. If, as expected, he comes through it, Gregor Townsend will then name him at full-back for the match against the South Sea Islanders at Murrayfield. The 26-year-old was expected to miss the entire autumn series after ankle surgery in September but was then called up to the national squad at the start of the week.

÷ Henry Slade is eager to continue his centre partnership with former Leinster midfielder Ben Te’o when England end their four-year wait to face New Zealand. The duo played together for the first time in Saturday’s 12-11 victory over South Africa, with Te’o making his first appearance since May after recovering from thigh and calf injuries. Their performances improved in tandem with England’s fightback against the Springboks and they are expected to keep their places when Eddie Jones names his starting XV to face the All Blacks today.

÷ Wales flanker Justin Tipuric is relishing Saturday’s battle with Australia’s crack breakdown unit of Michael Hooper and David Pocock. Tipuric has encountered Hooper and Pocock on several occasions, and respect is mutual. ‘There are two of the best sevens in the world playing in the same pack, so you are going to be in a tough game,’ said Tipuric. ‘They are quality opposition, two of Australia’s best players.’ without doubt.’