RETURNING HARDIE IS FIT TO FACE THE FRENCH
JOHN HARDIE has declared himself fit for selection in Scotland’s next Six Nations game against France.
The Edinburgh backrow played his first game for three months since ankle surgery in Friday’s Guinness Pro12 loss to Munster at Myreside.
His return to first-team action was the only bright spot for the capital club, who lost 10-9 to the league leaders.
The defeat leaves them in ninth place in the table and struggling badly to make the top six who automatically qualify for the European Champions Cup.
‘I was actually really nervous beforehand as I had not played for a good three months after being injured against Australia playing for Scotland, so I didn’t know if things were going to be right,’ said 13-times capped Hardie.
‘Once I started, though, I was fine and it was great to be back out there. The first ten minutes it was obvious I hadn’t played rugby for a while but I found my feet and felt really good.
‘I got a bit of cramp and came off after 66 minutes but I still loved being back involved. The body felt good and the ankle felt good.
‘Hopefully, I can kick on with Edinburgh and see how things go. The plan, I hope, is to go back into the Scotland camp this week. I am ready now, if required.’
Edinburgh acting head coach Duncan Hodge expressed his frustration at the narrow loss in what was a poor game, with both sides missing their top stars who were on international duty for Scotland and Ireland at Murrayfield.
‘I can have no complaints at the loss as we were second best out there,’ said Hodge.
‘It was good to have John back playing again, but to lose at home in that manner isn’t good enough. We didn’t play well and have to up our game in our next match against Ulster.’