VERN AIMS TO PUNISH PUMAS

develop and progress our game,’ said the Kiwi. ‘There’s an element of frustration within the group after that defeat to Australia but that frustration will develop into positive energy going forward. ‘We are using these three games to get better for the Six Nations. We know the Six Nations are going to be important, so let’s use that information we gather during these Tests ahead of it. ‘We’ll get something from the game against Argentina, as well, and the game against Georgia.’ Cotter is set to hand South African-born Cornell du Preez, who qualifies for Scotland through the three-year residency rule, his first cap in one of the two final autumn Test matches. The Port Elizabeth-born back row has been called into the squad due to injury concerns over John Hardie and Josh Strauss. There is also a question mark over the fitness of No8 Ryan Wilson. ‘John Hardie suffered a concussion, as well as a knee and ankle sprain against Australia,’ read a Scotland statement. ‘He is now subject to the graduated return to play protocols for his head injury, as well as ongoing rehabilitation and medical management for his leg. ‘As a consequence of the injuries sustained in the game and the rehabilitation of back-row Josh Strauss, Scotland have added Cornell du Preez to the squad. ‘Ryan Wilson suffered a laceration to his ankle in the fifth minute which required hospital attention.’ Lock Richie Gray had to go off for a head injury assessment (HIA) in the 12th minute against Australia but returned after six minutes and played the rest of the match. Although he must now complete another HIA, he is expected to be passed fit to play. Meanwhile, Australia head coach Michael Cheika revealed that Tevita Kuridrani, who scored the winning try, had been so upset at missing a tackle on Huw Jones in the first half he took drastic action during half-time. ‘He was hitting himself in the head, which I told him wasn’t advisable,’ Cheika said. ‘He was hurting because he missed one tackle early on and cost us a try.’