TOWNSEND TIPS HARLEY TO PROVE WORTH TO VERN

GLASGOW WARRIORS coach Gregor Townsend has backed Rob Harley to show Vern Cotter he is good enough to ease his secondrow problems ahead of the Six Nations clash with England. Harley has played blindside flanker for Scotland in their first three Six Nations losses but has been moved to the Warriors’ second row for tonight’s Pro12 match against Zebre at Scotstoun after discussions with Scotland coach Cotter and his coaching team. The New Zealander was far from satisfied with the line-out operation in the shock home defeat to Italy and wants to see Harley (right) in action at lock with a view to playing him there for the Calcutta Cup clash. With Richie Gray out for the rest of the Six Nations through injury, Scotland are struggling to find a partner for his brother Jonny, with Tim Swinson and Ben Toolis failing to convince against Italy. With Grant Gilchrist out for the season, the only other option is Jim Hamilton, who is lacking game time after missing the Italy match with a groin strain. Scotland are far better served for replacements on the blindside with Adam Ashe, David Denton, Johnnie Beattie and Alasdair Strokosch all able to play there, which would make it easier to take the decision to move Harley to the second row at Twickenham. Townsend said he had no problems in moving Harley to the second row against Zebre and was confident he would do well. ‘There was a discussion (with the Scotland management) about Rob before selection,’ said Townsend. ‘He has nailed the No 6 position for us and Scotland in the last season and he is very effective there. ‘But given his line-out abilities, I can see him playing for Scotland in the second row. ‘I think he is an excellent blindside flanker but the modern lock is very similar to a blindside flanker in the skills he needs — and Rob has these skills. ‘He played very well for Scotland A against England Saxons at Gala a few years ago in the second row and he ticks a lot of the boxes that a second row needs, such as having a high work rate, tackling well and ball clearing. ‘Rob has played all three games for Scotland but he had missed seven or eight club games before the France one because of injury. ‘It’s an opportunity for him to get another game under his belt. He has been playing well, so we’re delighted to have him available to play at lock.’