Hunter named South captain as Melrose get green light for 3G pitch
Gala’s Gregor Hunter has been named as captain in a 25-man South of Scotland squad for next month’s match away to Caledonia Reds, but Melrose have declined to take part.
The South’s first away game this century will be played at Bridgehaugh on Tuesday, 7 November in aid of the Doddie Weir trust, which was established to support the former Melrose and Scotland player’s fight against motor neurone disease.
Jed-forest’s Kevin Barrie, the South head coach, has included nine Hawick players in his squad and seven players from his own club, along with five Gala players, three from Selkirk and one from Kelso.
Hunter captained the team in last year’s corresponding fixture at Riverside Park, which the South won 33-7.
Hunter said: “I’m obviously really honoured to be named South captain again. I really enjoyed the challenge last year and I’m glad I have the opportunity to not only represent the South but be captain again.
“It was a tough challenge last year but it will be even harder being away from home. Hopefully we can get a good travelling support and put in a performance.”
Meanwhile, Melrose have been granted planning permission for a new 3G pitch and floodlights at the Greenyards.
The proposal is the first phase of what the Borders club is calling its legacy project, aimed at modernising its ageing facilities and future-proofing the Melrose Sevens.
The new lights will be strong enough for television coverage, while the dimensions of the pitch will be increased to meet international standards.
Once phase one of the project is complete, the club hope to replace their current facilities with a new 1,000-capacity stand, cafe, gymnasium, shop and reception.