Barclay hopes to take chance to shine against Russia

JOHN Barclay found himself relegated to Scotland’s second-string after his Ireland horror show but hopes a stormer in Shizuoka could seal a return to Gregor Townsend’s top team.

The Edinburgh flanker started the tournament as the Dark Blues’ first choice openside.

But he paid for a sloppy display in Scotland’s dismal Pool A opener against the Irish with his place as he, and Ryan Wilson, were dropped for the clash with Samoa.

With Hamish Watson also ruled out injured, that opened the door for Jamie Ritchie, Magnus Bradbury and Blade Thomson to form a new-look back three against the Pacific Islanders and they took their chance with a display brimming with energy during the 34-0 drubbing.

While the majority of Townsend’s top stars have been wrapped up in cotton wool ahead of the do-or-die clash with Japan this weekend, Barclay will be roughing it up against Russians at the Ecopa Stadium today (0815BST).

Barclay said: “I guess the reality is that the guys who are playing against Russia will be on the outskirts for the next game.

“It doesn’t take much to work out. But, equally, for the guys who are playing against Russia there is huge motivation to get involved for that Japan match.

“The reality is there will need to be a big performance and I need to prove I deserve to be involved against Japan. I have been disappointed, I have been frustrated since the Ireland game. The whole game was frustrating, but it’s part of being a rugby player.

“It’s the first time I have been left out of the squad since I returned to the fold. It’s been tough, but know all my focus is on Russia.”

Today’s RWC action was set to start with Argentina v USA in Kumagaya (0545BST)