Scotland banking on Barclay to lead against Wales

LONDON: Flanker John Barclay, will captain Scotland for the first time in seven years in their Six Nations clash with Wales at Murrayfield tomorrow, taking over from injured scrumhalf Greig Laidlaw.

Scotland coach Vern Cotter revealed five changes from the side who lost 22-16 to France in the team he announced yesterday.

Ali Price will make a first international start as replacement

pictured,

at halfback for Laidlaw, who will miss the rest of the tournament with an ankle ligament injury. Injured wing Sean Maitland is replaced by Tim Visser, while fit-again Ryan Wilson comes in at No 8 for another injury casualty, Josh Strauss, the ex-Lion. Gordon Reid has been included at loosehead prop in place of Allan Dell, who drops to the bench, while John Hardie will take over the No 7 jersey from Hamish Watson in a second tactical switch by Cotter.

Thirty-year-old Barclay will captain the side for just the second time, having previously led Scotland against New Zealand in 2010.

“John has played a vital role in our leadership group and has led by example throughout this and previous campaigns,” Cotter said.

“It was disappointing to lose Greig. However, we continue to develop a system of shared leadership in this squad, which has supported this transition. It’ll be a proud moment for John and one which he thoroughly deserves.”

Meanwhile, Wales are looking to the return of George North to their backline to spur Six Nations success.

The winger is fit again after missing the home loss to England a fortnight ago and coach Rob Howley is banking on him to help return Wales to winning ways. North is the only change from the team beaten 21-16 by England. – Reuters