CROCK SHOCK ROCKS TOURISTS
Scots and Lions count the cost
RICHIE GRAY and Sam Hidalgo-Clyne have been ruled out of Scotland’s summer tour.
And new head coach Gregor Townsend admits it’s a blow to be without the crocked duo for the tough tests with Italy, Australia and Fiji.
Lock Gray has been troubled by a back injury and illness while Hidalgo-Clyne has torn his hamstring.
Edinburgh scrum-half Sean Kennedy has been called up to fill the void left by clubmate Hidalgo-Clyne.
And Townsend feels for the Gunners star, who joined the squad when Greig Laidlaw earned a Lions call-up.
The Scots boss said: “We’re all disappointed for Sam who came into camp full of enthusiasm.
“At least his injury isn’t too serious and he can get back into pre-season with Edinburgh at a later date.
“It’s great that we have been able to call up a quality replacement in Sean Kennedy and we look forward to working with him.
“Richie has been unable to do much training since the Six Nations because of his back issues so it became quickly evident he wouldn’t be able to play Test match rugby this summer.
“It was valuable having him in camp last week, spending time with the new coaching group – and we wish him well with his recovery.”
The Lions have also been rocked by injury this week with Billy Vunipola missing their tour of New Zealand with a shoulder problem.
The Saracens star will be replaced in the squad by England back-row colleague James Haskell.
And coach Warren Gatland last night admitted it was a cruel blow to lose such a key player. He said: “It is really disappointing for Billy. He has been carrying an injury and feels he wouldn’t be able to contribute fully to the tour.
“We really appreciate his honesty in making this decision and wish him luck with his recovery.”
As the shockwaves from Vunipola’s injury reverberated around the rugby world, replacement Haskell insisted he was up for the challenge.
But he said: “Of all the places to go New Zealand is one of the toughest. They live and breathe the sport.
“Wherever you go everyone gives you a Haka. They say they’re welcoming you but it seems to me they’re offering you out for a fight, from the kids aged five to the OAPs.
“My missus keeps saying, ‘Why aren’t you bouncing off walls? This is what you have wanted since you were a kid.’
“It is a childhood dream but Billy is an unbelievable player, the best No.8 in the world, and I’m devastated for him.”