Scotland star banned after investigation

Edinburgh and Scotland back rower John Hardie will be suspended until mid-January after the completion of an internal investigation by Scottish Rugby.

New Zealand-born Hardie was initially suspended in the middle of October after allegations thought to relate to the use of recreational drugs, believed to be cocaine.

Scottish Rugby have still not confirmed the reasons other than describing the player’s actions as “gross misconduct”.

Glasgow and Scotland scrum-half Ali Price has signed a new deal at Scotstoun.

The 24-year-old from Norfolk has extended his stay with the Warriors until 2020 after impressing for Scotland in the autumn internationals.

Price has started in all but one of Gregor Townsend’s games in charge of the national team, and scored his second try in the 53-24 demolition of Australia at BT Murrayfield last weekend.

Price has been a regular – when available – in Glasgow’s winning start to the Guinness PRO14 season under Dave Rennie and was recognised by supporters last season for his performances with the player of the season award.

Price told Warriors TV: “Playing at Scotstoun is a feeling I can’t really explain. I love the buzz.

“Glasgow fans love their team and as a player I love that. I love running out here and they give us the extra motivation we need.

“I’m staying here because I want to win things. I feel like the squad and coaching staff we’ve got here have the ability to do that and it’s really exciting.”

Rennie added: “Ali has developed into a top class nine and the speed that he brings is a big part of how we’re trying to play the game.”