Another World Cup was no less than Cotter deserved

Had the SRU had the courage of their convictions and backed the Kiwi until after the World Cup in Japan, Townsend could have had a further three years developing his coaching approach.

A spell in the Premiership or Top 14 in France would not have been out of the question for Townsend and what a learning experience that would have been for him – particularly given how “young” his coaching career is.

Instead, Townsend will inherit a team in the ascendancy and fans who now have very high expectations.

If this progression halts or falters, then questions will be asked and the SRU will have to hold themselves accountable for this decision.

Clearly, they would not have appointed Townsend if they did not believe he could do the job – and he has done an excellent job at Glasgow, developing a style and approach that has regularly sold out Scotstoun.

Everyone wants the borderer to succeed. Yet I can’t help but feel that he would be better served by taking on this role later rather than sooner.

So Vern Cotter’s legacy will be remembered by all. Scotland are winning games and doing so by playing some excellent rugby.

The players are confident and are scoring tries. There should be a strong representation of Scots heading to New Zealand with the Lions.

Vern Cotter could not have done more – he deserves our gratitude.