Academy starlets set for Six Nations bow

SEAN LINEEN has named a Scotland Under-20 side featuring a strong contingent of players from the BT Sport Academy for their Six Nations opener against Ireland at Broadwood tonight (8.30pm).

Of the 23-man squad named, 16 players are products of the academy and eight have experience of playing international rugby at Under-20 level.

Hawick’s Darcy Graham is set to start at full-back, with Ross McCann and Robbie Nairn occupying the wings.

Cameron Hutchison and Craig Pringle start in midfield, with Andrew Simmers and Josh Henderson forming the half-back duo.

In the forwards, George Thornton and Adam Nicol packdown at prop either side of hooker Fraser Renwick, while Callum Hunter-Hill – who will captain the side – starts in the second-row alongside Alex Craig.

Luke Crosbie and Matt Fagerson start on the blindside and openside flank respectively and will be joined in the back-row by Tom Dodd, who will don the No.8 shirt.

Lineen, said: “A lot of players have made a statement during the preparation camps and their hard work and effort has merited a spot in the side for Friday’s Championship opener.

“A lot of those involved this week are new to the international stage, but they have the quality to compete and we have no doubt they will rise to the occasion.

“Ireland are going to be physical and astute, and we’ll have to be at the top of our game to match them in all facets. However, we’re going to relish the challenge and we look forward to doing so in front of our home support.”