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Updated on:
Wednesday, 10.03.10
Squad to attend tribute
Members of the Scotland squad are to attend a tribute night for the Voice of Rugby Bill McLaren. The special evening will be held at Murrayfield Stadium on Thursday - two days before the Calcutta Cup match - and will feature contributions from some of the biggest stars in rugby honouring his special place in the game. Scotland centre Nick De Luca, who has been named in the starting XV for Saturday's match, said: "I grew up listening to Bill and I wouldn't miss the opportunity to reflect on the joy he brought to so many people and join the celebration for the manner in which he brought rugby to life. "Thursday will be a memorable day and it would be fitting for Bill's family and friends if as many people as possible attend the tribute. "McLaren, died in January aged 86, and his family are keen that as many people as possible can attend the celebration of his life. Supporters are welcome to the stadium from 5pm - admission is free - and are being encouraged to arrive early. The tribute itself will begin at 6.30pm.
Alex back in for England test
Scotland under-20 have made just one change to the side that earned their first away victory at this age level as they prepare to face England at Firhill (kick-off 7pm) on Friday.
Scrum-half Alex Black (Leeds Carnegie) returns to the starting XV which sees Caithness scrum-half Kris Hamilton return to the bench.
So far this season's under-20 squad have registered two historic under-20 achievements, the first in front of almost 3000 vocal supporters in Inverness who backed them to the hilt as they battled back from conceding an early score to draw 8-8 with France.
The under-20s then bounced back from a 20-12 loss to Wales at Cardiff Arms Park and secured the first away victory for Scotland at this age-grade with a dramatic 18-16 victory over Italy in front of a 4000-strong Sardinian crowd.
Head Coach Eamon John: "We make the selection according to the opposition. We wanted to start quickly against Italy which is why we went with Kris [Hamilton] but from an English point of view we need a bit more physicality at the start.
"Any team in any sport is always beatable. It's up to us to get it right. We respect England who will have players with under-20 World Cup final experience - but we're going to go out there to do a job on them and make life uncomfortable in Glasgow.
"I hope we get a good support at the Scotland v England game - the support we've had so far has been fantastic and I'm looking forward to playing in front of a big, noisy and patriotic crowd."
‘Sonians in real trouble
Watsonians are now five points from safety in Scottish Hydro Premier One after they lost 34-14 to Selkirk on Saturday.
The match was well poised until the last five minutes at Philiphaugh when the hosts added two tries to help their own survival bid.
Sonians are now favourites to join Stewarts Melville in Premier Two with them being five points behind Edinburgh Accies with three away matches left.
Elsewhere on Saturday Accies went down 34-13 at Melrose, Heriots defeated West of Scotland 49-33 in a cracker, Glasgow Hawks edged out Dundee HSFP 33-32 at Mayfield and Boroughmuir saw off Stew/Mel 38-3.
Ayr were edged out in the British & Irish Cup, battling hard before going down 30-27 to Cardiff at the Arms Park in their final pool match.
Foundation launched
The Bill McLaren Foundation was officially launched yesterday at Murrayfield.
Bill, before his death in January, and his wife Bette gave their full support to the initiative, which has been set up for three purposes:
To develop and promote the sport of rugby union and its values
To encourage and provide sporting opportunities for young people
To create an Educative Centre which will include the Bill McLaren Archive.
Linda Lawson, Bill's daughter, commented: "My father lived his life for his family and friends, for Hawick and The Borders, and of course for rugby and sport. But when this Foundation was suggested, to him and Mum, they were pleased but maybe a little embarrassed to think that anyone would want to pursue the Foundations aims, all in his name. I am so glad he was persuaded!"
Attending were Linda Lawson, charity Directors, former Scotland and British Lions backs Andy Irvine and John Rutherford, Foundation Chair Malcolm Murray and John Thorburn, who will take on the role of Foundation Secretary. Both Murray and Thorburn are well-known figures in the Hawick and Scottish rugby communities.
Representatives from founder sponsors The Famous Grouse, Johnstons Cashmere and Scottish Widows Bank were also present.
Director Andy Irvine said: "All of the trustees are proud to be involved with Bill's Foundation and to help it achieve so much that will bring opportunity and benefit, to young people in sport. I urge the rugby community and anyone who took pleasure from Bill's commentaries to support the memory and aspirations of this great rugby man."
It is intended that a supporters' scheme for individuals and for families will be set up and that rugby and sports' lovers worldwide will want to be a part of Bill's legacy, and to remain in touch with the Foundation's work.
Bill McLaren tribute evening
Remember that some of the greatest rugby players in the world will be joining a special evening next week to celebrate the life of The Voice of Rugby, Bill McLaren.
The Bill McLaren tribute evening will take place on Thursday, March 11 at Murrayfield (turnstiles open from 5pm - entry is FREE).
The gathering of rugby stars will now see a quartet who have represented Hawick, Scotland and British Lions over the years, as Hugh McLeod, Colin Deans, Jim Renwick and Tony Stanger will all be sharing their thoughts and memories of Bill.
To add to the musical accompaniment of the pipes, drums and choir, Ronnie Browne will be performing "Flower of Scotland" to salute the Hawick commentary legend.
Dougie Donnelly will be MC for the evening, and he will also be joined by Scotland's most-capped player Chris Paterson; former Welsh wing wizard Gerald Davies; former Scotland full-back Gavin Hastings; former England lock Bill Beaumont and former Scotland full-back Andy Irvine.
Those wishing to attend are encouraged to arrive early and take their seats as the evening will start at 6.30pm sharp.
Cup fate to be decided
The Scottish Hydro Premier Cup fate of Boroughmuir and Kirkcaldy looks set to be decided by the Championship Committee after the match between the two was postponed for an eighth time on Tuesday night.
The encounter was switched to Boroughmuirs Meggetland ground on Tuesday afternoon after Beveridge Park once again failed to beat the elements.
Premier Two side Kirkcaldy travelled through to the Capital, but it was felt that parts of the pitch were too hard and not playable as a result. The match was called off shortly before 7.15pm leaving everyone frustrated and the 'Muir players training.
With Cartha Queens Park awaiting the winners of a preliminary tie that was amazingly first scheduled for November 21 in round one and the winners of that match then set to face Perthshire in round two in just nine days time the situation has become a real headache.
According to the rules of the competition the outcome of the match is now likely to be decided by the cutting of cards, but the Championship Committee could decide to make a decision of their own.
Stortoni staying where he isGlasgow Warriors Head Coach Sean Lineen has branded full-back Bernardo Stortoni as "truly exceptional" as he re-signed with the club for a further two years.
Stortoni, who signed from Bristol in 2007, has been ever-present in the back division and a safe pair of hands under his trademark high kicks.
"Bernie is the heartbeat of the team," Lineen said. "He's been here for a few years now and has a great attitude and work ethic. The guy is exceptional.
"He looks after himself really well and takes real pride in his performance. He wants to do well for Glasgow and I think he's really developed his game over the last three years, so much so that he got back into the Argentina team.
In addition to Stortoni's commitment, centre/wing Dave McCall, recruited from Heriot's, has impressed Lineen so much during the time he has been on a temporary contract to merit a full-time position for a further two years.
And Heriot's and National Academy flanker Chris Fusaro, a product of the prolific Howe of Fife/Bell Baxter High School youth set-up, has been handed a two-year professional contract having made his first start for the Warriors against Cardiff Blues almost two weeks ago.
Trio given boost
Second-row Steven Turnbull admits he is thrilled to have agreed a new two year contract while National Academy graduates hooker Fraser Brown and No.8 Stuart McInally have signed their first professional contracts with Edinburgh to further strengthen the squad.
Turnbull's debut professional season was wrecked by injury when he suffered a fracture dislocation of his ankle in September 2008. However, the 22-year-old has since returned to full fitness and this season has featured in 11 games; including three starts in the Heineken Cup.
The second row forward says he is pleased with his progress and now wants to help Edinburgh to challenge for trophies - starting with the Magners League Grand Final in May.
Turnbull said: I'm delighted to be staying with Edinburgh for the near future. At the moment, the club is aspiring to become greater and to win trophies and it is exciting to be part of that development.
This season has gone quite well, apart from injuring my hamstring over the Christmas period. It is just good to be playing some rugby and helping the team to challenge for the Magners League title.
Watsonians hooker Brown says he is pleased to have earned himself a professional contract and is looking forward to linking up again with Edinburgh head coach Rob Moffat - the man who appointed him captain of the Scotland under-20 team.
The 20-year-old has been restricted to just five first team appearances for 'Sonians over the past two seasons after suffering injuries to his neck, shoulder and bicep.
McInally captained Scotland's under-18 team before being fast-tracked through to the under-20 side and the 19-year-old said: "I'm absolutely delighted. I owe a lot to the National Academy for the support work that has come from them. I've already experienced being in the Edinburgh environment by working with them on Mondays and Tuesdays and I'm really looking forward to training with them full-time.
"Ever since I joined the National Academy, I've always wanted to play for Edinburgh - it is a dream come true."
The heat is on
Stewarts Melville are to take on Currie at Lasswades Hawthornden ground on Wednesday, March 3 in a rearranged match with a 7.30pm kick-off.
The Scottish Hydro Premier One clash was postponed on Saturday, but both clubs are eager to play and all are welcome to attend.
Stewarts Melville may already be relegated, but their young team will fight to the end and will want to give Coach Graeme Moffat a good send off before he heads off to Canada.
Currie - who have not played a league match since late January - will be eager to stretch their five point lead at the top of the table over Ayr. The likes of Club Internationalist Ross Weston, pictured, will be key if they are to record a good win.
Historic win for under-20s
Scotland under-20 secured their first ever away Six Nations victory at the weekend, scoring three tries to beat Italy 18-16 in Capoterra, Sardinia. Two tries either side of an Italian penalty put the Scots in the lead but missed conversions meant that a second Italy penalty kept the hosts in reach before wing Oliver Grove found his aim and slotted a penalty on the stroke of half-time. A converted Italian try immediately after the break brought the sides level before Italy added a penalty to take the lead for the first time and threaten the win, however, stand-off Alex Blair had other ideas as he crossed for the winner.
Scotland under-20 Head Coach Eamon John said: "We had to show some real character today and had to dig and fight for the victory. "The crowd were very hostile, it was a bit of bear pit out there, but a brilliant atmosphere and a fantastic achievement for the boys - to score three tries away from home in those condition is an excellent achievement.”
Well done to Captain Stuart McInally, pictured, and his team.
Ayr ready for Pontypridd challengeAyr take on Pontypridd in the British & Irish Cup tomorrow (Millbrae, 3.30pm) knowing that another victory will see them edge closer to the knock out stages.
For Ayr, who will have assistant coach Peter Laverie in charge in the absence of Kenny Murray who is with the Scotland under-20 squad in Italy, Pat MacArthur has been released by Glasgow Warriors and starts at hooker.
Another big crowd is expected at Millbrae - swelled by a 400-strong travelling party from Wales - for the Pool D match.
On Sunday Heriots travel to play Bristol at the Memorial Ground in the same event.
There are also a number of league games across the country this weekend, if they beat the weather, and Scottish Hydro Premier One leader Currie will be looking for a win at already relegated Stewarts Melville.
They travel to Inverleith without Captain Andy Adam who has a calf injury, so Steve Burton steps up. For the hosts Andy Fraser is in the back-row for Lewis Calder who is off to London Scottish and Hayden Lingard returns to the backline.
Good luck this weekend
The SCRUM would like to wish all players heading to Italy on representative duty this weekend all the best.
The action starts on Friday afternoon when the under-20s travel to Sardinia to take on their counterparts, boosted with the news that Sale Sharks Jonny Kennedy is fit to return at centre.
On Friday evening the Scotland A team are facing Italy A in Biella with Greig Laidlaw, pictured, handed the captaincy. He is also teaming up with Ruaridh Jackson in an exciting half back pairing.
On Saturday it is the turn of the full side who will be in Rome looking to bounce back from the last minute defeat to Wales two weeks ago. Hugo Southwell and Chris Cusiter, the Captain, will both be earning their 50th caps.
To round off the weekend Lynne Reid and the Scotland Womens team will be looking for their second win of their Six Nations campaign. They have played well against France and Wales - beating the former and losing to the latter - and are keen to build on their current form.
We will have a full round-up of the fixtures on this website next week, while keep an eye out for the new ezine coming soon.
Shark attack
Sale Sharks centre Jonny Kennedy has returned to the Scotland under-20 frontline as they prepare to face Italy in the third match of the Six Nations campaign in Sardinia on Friday (26 February, kick-off 2pm GMT).
Kennedy was ruled out of the 20-12 loss to Wales after he picked up a shoulder injury in the 8-8 opener against France however, having been given the all clear, the youngster is ready to bring his trademark physicality back to bolster the Scottish backs.
He said: "I can't wait to get out there with the boys again. Having played against France I can honestly say that the under-20s are one of the best sides in terms of team spirit that I have ever played in.
"My physicality is one of my biggest features, especially tackling and running with ball in hand, but communication is a big thing in rugby and something which, along with my experience of professional rugby, I hope I can bring to the team.
"We're going out there to win. That's our mentality. They're a good team but we've got to beat them."
Kennedy's return means James Johnstone (Currie) moves to the bench in place of Callum McBurnie (Moseley) while Hawick prop Nicky Little earns a starting slot ahead of George Hunter (Glasgow Hawks) who moves to the bench.
Sponsor for Hawick Sevens
Hawick Rugby Club have announced that Plumbline will sponsor its April sevens tournament for the second year in a row.
Doug Jackson Hawicks Sevens Convenor, said: This is excellent news for the club. We forged an excellent relationship with Plumbline and the team is looking forward to pulling on the green jersey with its trendy red Plumbline piping again. It brought them so much success last season.
Russell Hamilton, Galashiels Branch Manager of Plumbline said: We are delighted to continue our relationship with the Hawick club. Last year was an outstanding success for us, Borders rugby in general and for the Greens who won their own tournament for the second year in succession.
Plumbline started business in Glasgow in 1988 providing exceptional service to the trade in plumbing, heating and bathrooms.
The Hawick Sevens is on April 17 this year.
Scotland team to face Italy
Scotland have made five changes, including one positional switch, for their team to play Italy in the RBS 6 Nations Championship in Rome on Saturday.
The team is recast after the injuries sustained in Cardiff by Chris Paterson, Thom Evans and Rory Lamont, which will rule them out for the remainder of the championship, while experienced prop Allan Jacobsen wins the nod over Alasdair Dickinson at loose-head.
Introduced to the team who started the defeat to Wales are full-back Hugo Southwell; right-wing Simon Danielli, who is currently joint top try scorer in the Magners League; centre Max Evans, who scored a try off the bench against the Welsh; and prop Jacobsen. Sean Lamont moves from the centre to wing.
Meanwhile, on the bench, there are recalls to the squad for Nathan Hines and Alasdair Strokosch (who both missed the Welsh game through injury) and outside back Nick De Luca.
Scotland squad: Hugo Southwell; Simon Danielli, Max Evans, Graeme Morrison, Sean Lamont; Dan Parks, Chris Cusiter; Allan Jacobsen, Ross Ford, Euan Murray, Jim Hamilton, Ally Kellock, Kelly Brown, John Beattie, John Barclay. Subs: Scott Lawson, Ali Dickinson, Nathan Hines, Ali Strokosch, Mike Blair, Phil Godman, Nick De Luca.
Watsonians still fightingStewarts Melvilles return to Scottish Hydro Premier Two was confirmed while Watsonians gave their own survival hopes a boost after an open and entertaining match at Myreside on Saturday.
The 26-13 win with a bonus point leaves Sonians second bottom, three points behind Selkirk, and although they know they will have to play better if they are to get enough points from their last four matches to stay up it was a step in the right direction.
Stewarts Melville fought to the end, as they have done all term, but a lack of experience and composure as well defensive frailties have been their downfall in the top flight over the last few months.
The hosts had the win all but wrapped up by the break, tries from back-row Gavin Callander, scrum-half Jamie Blackwood and winger Ali Rowe putting them 19-5 up at the interval.
Teenage full-back Jamie Forbes, who had a mixed afternoon but is improving week on week, bagged Watsonians fourth try and the bonus point two minutes into the second half to send them into four away games on something of a high.
Elsewhere at the weekend in the top flight Boroughmuir defeated Melrose 32-26 at Meggetland to boost their own hopes of staying up. Back-row Jamie Doubleday, a member of the Scottish Universities side, bagged two tries.
Dundee HSFPs impressive season continued with a 40-19 thumping of Edinburgh Accies, Heriots turned on the style to see off Selkirk 44-20 at Goldenacre and the Ayr-West and Glasgow Hawks-Currie fell victim to the weather.
County and Currie smiling
Stirling County and Curries young players will be feeling on top of the world this week after they helped their respective sides win the National under-16 and under-15 Youth Cup finals at Murrayfield on Sunday.
County saw off Boroughmuir 41-7 in the under-16 match while Currie defeated West of Scotland 24-7 in the under-15s encounter in front of an enthusiastic crowd of over 1500.
And coming 10 days after the Brewin Dolphin Scottish Schools finals night, which drew in a crowd of nearly 6000, it has been a good spell for age-grade rugby.
County, who have produced some great young players in recent seasons, ran in four tries in the first half to all but secure the under-16 title.
Captain Stephen Gillies ran in the first try from full-back before back-row Joel Fuentes, who was later named man of the match, went over to make it 12-0.
Centre Adam Tunaley and then Gillies again - helped by the boot of stand-off Jack Urquhart - made it 24-0 at the interval.
Credit to Boroughmuir for fighting hard, but in the second half two more tries were added by County. Winger Brodie Clark and Urquhart were the scorers with the latter adding seven further points with the boot.
Muir deservedly got on the board late on with a try from Claude Millee.
Meanwhile, earlier in the afternoon Currie had lifted the under-15 trophy with scrum-half Duncan Swanson leading them to a 24-7 victory over West of Scotland.
The Malleny Park youngsters led 14-7 at the interval, Swanson opening the scoring with some quick thinking. He took a quick tap and dived over with stand-off Alexander Swan converting.
West centre Angus Burns levelled things up when he scored a try - and converted it - after chasing through his own kick, but Currie were seven points up at the break thanks to Swansons second try.
West fought hard to try and get themselves back into it, but tries from winger Matt Flett and replacement Nick Pert, the second one in the last minute, saw Currie home.
Currie head coach Mike McWilliam said: That was a super match, end to end rugby. The crowd were fantastic and the support from Currie and the surrounding community was just great.
For the young players to come out and experience a day like today has been fantastic.
The bowl finals on the back pitches were postponed due to frost at the national stadium.
Duo back for Muir
Young talents Tom Bury and Neale Patrick, pictured, return to the Boroughmuir side for their crucial Scottish Hydro Premier One match on Saturday.
The Meggetland men sit just six points above second bottom Watsonians and saw last weekends cup tie at Kirkcaldy postponed for a fourth time. Melrose lost at West of Scotland last week and will be keen to bounce back.
Elsewhere Ayr, who have scored 202 points in their last four matches, will be looking to keep up the pressure on leaders Currie with a win over West at Millbrae. The leaders are away to Glasgow with James Johnstone back from under-20s duty to bolster the midfield.
At the bottom of the table the two teams in the relegation zone go head-to-head. Watsonians, without broken arm victim Dan OConnell, welcome Stewarts Melville to Myreside needing the point themselves and knowing a loss will relegate the Inverleith men.
And to complete Saturdays top flight card Edinburgh Accies, with Gavin Douglas back, host Dundee HSFP and Heriots take on Selkirk.
Doubled up in Glasgow
Glasgow Hawks were joined by Glasgow Warriors on Tuesday night for a joint training session.
A short game then ensued with both sides showing skill and determination to impress both coaching teams involved.
This session will undoubtedly have helped in preparations for their important upcoming games - Warriors v Cardiff, Friday at 7.30pm and Hawks v Currie, Saturday at 3pm.
Youngsters chance to shine
Some of the top youngsters from around Scotland are preparing for the National under-15 and under-16 Youth Cup Final at Murrayfield on Sunday.
The two finals will be played back to back on the international pitch, the first being the under-15 cup final between Currie and West of Scotland (kick-off at 1.30pm), before the under-16 final between Stirling County and Boroughmuir (kick-off 3pm).
Currie made it to the final after an away win against Deeside RFC at The Green (7-26). Their opponents, West of Scotland, also had to travel for their semi-final where they ran out victorious against Howe of Fife at Duffus Park (5-20).
Last year's under-15 winners Stirling County eased through their semi-final match with a 31-0 home victory against Dundee Eagles. Their opponents Boroughmuir also had a home tie and stopped West of Scotland having a team in each final when they ran out victorious 14-7.
Sevens win silverware, but not happy
Winning the Shield title at the IRB Sevens World Series event in Las Vegas, USA, will do little to hide the disappointment of the Scotland Sevens as they travel home.
A victory over Chile (26-10) was preceded by defeats to Kenya (17-0) and eventual tournament winners Samoa (41-12) on day one to relegate the Scots into the Bowl competition on day two. But defeat at the hands of Argentina (14-7) meant that the Shield competition was their final destination.
Wins over Guyana (31-7) and Japan (17-7) sealed the title but the fourth tier competition is not enough to satisfy the ambitions of Coach Stephen Gemmell.
Gemmell said: "It's been a disappointing weekend. The reality is we've beaten Chile, Guyana and Japan and, with no disrespect, we should be beating them."
He continued: "We finished below our seeding and that's not where we want to be.
"It was nice to finish with a couple of wins, and we played some good rugby in the final, but we're massively disappointed and winning a trophy is not going to hide that."
Scotland's only try against the Argentineans came from Colin Shaw, Craig Jackson adding the conversion.
In their second outing of the day, Scotland scored five tries through five different players. Jackson and Chris Kinloch kicked off proceedings with tries in the first half, Peter Jericevich converting the second.
Shaw, Lee Jones and David Tait all touched down in the second period, Jericevich converting two.
In the Shield final, a try from Tait, converted by Jericevich, ignited Scotland's campaign, but that was soon cancelled out when Kaoru Matsushita touched down and Kenji Shomen added the extras.
In the early stages of the second half, a try brace from Jones and Kinloch were unanswered to ensure Scotland came home with some silverware.
Injury latest
Scotland backs Thom Evans and Chris Paterson remained in University Hospital Cardiff on Sunday following injuries they sustained in yesterday's RBS 6 Nations Championship match against Wales.
Scotland Team Doctor James Robson said: "The surgery that Thom required - having sustained damage to his neck - went well.
"Thom had sustained slippage to one of the vertebrae and that required to be eased back into place. The surgeons are pleased with his progress, Thom has movement in his arms and legs and his family have been to visit him today, as have a number of his Glasgow Warriors team-mates.
"He will remain at the hospital and if he continues to progress he will be allowed to travel back to Scotland into the care of the Glasgow Warriors medical team later this week.
"Chris will also remain in hospital today after the damage he sustained to his right kidney. Fortunately he does not require surgery at present.
"In effect he has a massive bruise in the middle of his kidney but that will gradually repair itself and the medical team are also pleased with his progress."
In Paterson's case he could be out of action for up to 10 weeks.
Another Scotland back, Rory Lamont, will also be monitored by medical staff after suffering knee ligament damage in the game that Scotland lost at the death.
Further medical bulletins will be issued in due course and Scottish Rugby wishes all three players a speedy recovery.
Hutchesons' Grammar and Edinburgh Academy take Brewin Dolphin spoils
Victorious Edinburgh Academy Coach Mark Appleson with Captain Fraser Gillies
Over 6000 fans packed into a cold Murrayfield last night to watch the under 15 and Under 18 Brewin Dolphin Scottish Schools Cup Finals.
In the under 15 final Hutcheson;s Grammar School edged out Stewarts Melville College 10-8 in a very close encounter which was hard-fought to the final whistle. Scrum half Robbie Blackwood broke down the blindside for the decisive try for the school from the West to the delight of their sizeable travelling support.
In the all-Edinburgh Under 18 final, The Edinburgh Academy clinched victory in injury time with a penalty from stand-off and Captain Fraser Gillies. In the dying seconds of the game Gillies missed two drop goal attempts but held his nerve to give his side a 13-11 victory over Stewarts Melville College.
Stewarts Melville College were looking as if they would hang on to their slender 11-10 lead thanks to a try and two long range penalties from full-back Scott Cook, but come the final whistle, the team were out on their feet having given their all.
Once again both the Brewin Dolphin Scottish Cup Finals were a fantastic advert for Scottish rugby and no doubt there will be a number of players from this years finals playing again at the national stadium in years to come.
Look out for the next issue of The SCRUM for full reports on both finals.
Currie prepare for Hawick cup tie
Currie welcome back their Scottish Club Internationals as they prepare to take on Hawick in the Scottish Hydro Premier Cup on Saturday.
There are also places in the back-line for Iain Downie and Stewart Walker with a number of players away on Scotland under-20 action in Wales.
And on the bench Alan Whittingham is given a place after impressing for the twos in recent weeks.
Currie Coach Ally Donaldson said: Hawick are going well and look certain to come up to Premier One. As such they will bring a lot of confidence and always play with a lot of spirit and passion. The cup history is full of Premier Two clubs getting to finals and we only have to look at Stirling Countys result last week to know the difficulty of Saturdays task.
The match kicks-off at 2.30pm as do the other ties, including Dunfermline-Gala.
In Premier One on Saturday West are taking on Melrose and Stewarts Melville make the trip to Dundee HSFP.
In the British & Irish Cup Ayr host Birmingham & Solihull on Saturday (4pm), while Heriots will be looking for their first win in the competition when Neath visit Goldenacre on Sunday at 2pm.
Scots youngsters go looking for an away win
Three changes have been made to the Scotland under-20 side that drew 8-8 with France at the weekend for their second Six Nations match against Wales on Friday (Cardiff Arms Park, kick-off 7.05pm).
Scotland under-20 Head Coach, Eamon John, said: "I'm very happy with the performance we put in against France. We were very competitive and had the chance to win it.
"I was particularly happy with the character shown by the squad, especially in the second half. It was that character and the possession gained as a result that allowed us to come so close to winning the game - so lots of positives to take from the match."
Glasgow Hawks' prop George Hunter and Heriot's second-row Matthew Reid replace the injured Craig Owenson (rib) and Grant Gilchrist (shin) in the front five while James Johnstone (Currie) comes in for the injured Sale Sharks outside-centre Jonny Kennedy (shoulder).
The trio has been promoted from the bench. As a result, Nicky Little (Hawick) and Aaron Hall (Newcastle Falcons) come in as forward replacements and Callum McBurnie (Mosley) joins as support for the backs as they prepare to face a Wales side coming from a 41-14 defeat to England.
Paterson's century beckons
This weekend will see Chris Paterson reach 100 international appearances for Scotland. He will be the first Scotsman to achieve this, the sixth Northern Hemisphere player to do so, and the 11th person in international rugby union.
Paterson follows in the footsteps of some inspirational rugby union players who have achieved this milestone:
George Gregan (Australia) 139
Fabien Pelous (France) 118
Jason Leonard (England) 114
Philippe Sella (France) 111
George Smith (Australia) 110
Stephen Larkham (Australia) 102
Percy Montgomery (South Africa) 102
David Campese (Australia) 101
Alessandro Troncon (Italy) 101
Gareth Thomas (Wales) 100
Elsewhere in the Scotland team to play Wales at the Millenium Stadium at 2pm on Saturday there are three changes in personnel from that defeated by France at the weekend.
Euan Murray, who missed Sunday's match because of his religious faith, returns at tight-head prop for Moray Low; Dan Parks is preferred to Phil Godman at stand-off; and Rory Lamont is back from injury and will line-up on the left wing.
This necessitates a positional switch with Sean Lamont moving to outside centre in place of Max Evans.
Scotland update
Twelve players have been added to the Scotland squad preparing for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations Championship match against Wales in Cardiff.
Supplementing the 22 who were on duty for the 18-9 loss to France are Mike Blair, Ben Cairns, Nick De Luca and Jim Hamilton (all Edinburgh), Dougie Hall, Ruaridh Jackson and Dan Parks (Glasgow Warriors), Scott Gray and Euan Murray (Northampton Saints), Simon Danielli (Ulster), Rory Lamont (Toulon) and Nikki Walker (Ospreys).
Those who played in the game were involved in recovery protocols on Monday. Scotland Doctor James Robson said he would be monitoring the progress of the following players who sustained knocks in the French match: John Beattie (hip bruising), Kelly Brown (shoulder strain), Thom Evans (calf bruising), Nathan Hines (calf strain), Graeme Morrison (leg bruising) and Chris Paterson (calf bruising).
The Scotland team to play Wales is due to be announced at 11.30am today.
Great clubs win over France
Scotlands Club International side held on for a thrilling 13-9 victory against France at a rainy Netherdale on Friday night.
The Scots started at a high tempo and after Melrose winger Callum Anderson had gone close in the third minute he scored the games opening try four minutes later.
A great tackle by Boroughmuir centre Malcolm Clapperton helped hooker Scott Burnett turn over the ball just on the French 10 metre line. Burnett fed back-row Mark Cairns who in turn put Anderson away in the corner with club team mate Scott Wight, pictured, converting.
The French began to up the physicality at this stage, as you might expect from a team coached by former international Olivier Magne, and although Scotland tackled well the visitors earned a penalty in the 17th minute. Former pro Mathieu Maillard kicked it to reduce the gap to four points.
Wight and then Maillard both missed other penalty chances before the Melrose stand-off kicked one on 26 minutes to make it 10-3. A Maillard penalty brought it back to 10-6 before France had centre Anthony Frenet sin-binned on the stroke of half-time.
The Scots could not take advantage of the extra man though and influential man Cairns was then forced off, but Scotland showed some enterprise in the 55th minute only for the scoring chance to be lost.
Just after the hour mark Maillards third penalty of the evening closed the gap to one point and he was short with another moments later with the game very much still in the balance.
With 10 minutes to go a great break by Clapperton eventually won a penalty which Wight kicked to give Scotland a 13-9 advantage.
In the closing stages both teams had men yellow carded, but the hosts held on for their fourth ever win at this level.
Parkers first women's teamCelia Hawthorn admits that being picked to make her Scotland Womens debut in Saturdays match against France came as a bit of a surprise, but the Edinburgh University student intends to grab the opportunity with both hands.
The 20-year-old has been selected at full-back for the Six Nations opener at Lasswade (7.30pm) after impressing new Head Coach Gary Parker in the position in the warm-up match against Ireland.
And she admits she is delighted to be involved with the full squad for the first time in a busy year for the womens side, with the Six Nations being followed by the World Cup in England.
Elsewhere in the team Coach Gary has gone for Louise Dalgliesh at scrum-half ahead of Sarah Gill, while there is a lot of experience in the pack.
The Scotland A team will play against their French counterparts at 6pm as a curtain raiser and entry to both matches is free.
Scotland Womens team (to face France Women at Lasswade tonight, kick-off 7.30pm): C Hawthorn (Edinburgh University); V Blakebrough (Richmond), L Millard (Team Northumbria), E Kerr (London Wasps), V Fitzpatrick (RHC Cougars); T Griffith (RHC Cougars), L Dalgliesh (RHC Cougars), H Lockhart (Hillhead/Jordanhill), S-L Walker (Watsonians), B Dickens (Murrayfield Wanderers), L Wheeler (Team Northumbria), L Moffat (Murrayfield Wanderers), L Reid (RHC Cougars), S Brown (Richmond), D Kennedy (Worcester). Subs: S Quick (Murrayfield Wanderers), R Murphy (Edinburgh University), G McCord (RHC Cougars), R Slaven (Murrayfield Wanderers), S Gill (Murrayfield Wanderers), L Douglas (London Wasps), C D'Silva (RHC Cougars).
Strong looking under-20s named
Scotland under-20 Head Coach Eamon John has named his team for the Six Nations opener against France at the Tulloch Caledonian Stadium on Friday night (kick-off 7.30pm).
Inverness-born scrum-half, Alex Black (Leeds Carnegie) has earned the right to start against the French while Sale Sharks' Jonny Kennedy joins at inside centre, having come through his club's Heineken Cup clash with Toulouse unscathed.
Eamon John said: "The key is to take advantage of playing at home and start our campaign well. We must be ultra-competitive and take every chance we get to win this game. We'll be looking to start well, aggressively, and on the front foot; and take our game to them on Friday night.
"You can expect everything from the French: physicality and flair, but we also know Scottish teams can beat France, especially on home soil, and that's what well be looking to do."
Team:
15 Tom Brown (Edinburgh Accies)*
14 Oliver Grove (Worcester Warriors)
13 Jonny Kennedy (Sale Sharks)
12 Alex Dunbar (Selkirk)*
11 Dougie Fife (Currie)**
10 Alex Blair (Edinburgh Accies)*
9 Alex Black (Leeds Carnegie)
1 Craig Owensen (Heriot's)**
2 Alun Walker (Currie)
3 Colin Phillips (Stewart's Melville)**
4 Robert Harley (West of Scotland)*
5 Grant Gilchrist (Stirling County)*
6 Michael Maltman (Heriot's)**
8 Stuart McInally CAPTAIN (Watsonians)*
7 David Denton (Edinburgh Accies)*
Replacements
16 Lindsey Gibson (Melrose)
17 George Hunter (Glasgow Hawks)
18 Matthew Reid (Heriot's)
19 Callum Stidston-Nott (London Scottish)
20 Kris Hamilton (Caithness)**
21 Matthew Scott (Currie)**
22 James Johnstone (Currie)*
* Denotes a member of the Scottish National Contracted Academy
** Denotes a member of the Scottish Rugby National Academy supported by the Scottish Institute of Sport
NB win Club of the Month
North Berwick celebrated being awarded the Scottish Hydro Club of the Month award for December at their home ground Recreation Park.
The award, and the 1000 prize, commends the club's on and off-field performance in the month in which North Berwick's first XV won both of their December games by around 30 points with an unblemished discipline record to satisfy two of the three award criteria.
In addition to their table-topping first XV league performances, North Berwick have been applauded for extensive rugby development run in partnership with North Berwick High School which, as result, is among the top rugby playing schools in the country, regularly reaching the quarter and semi-final stages of the Brewin Dolphin Scottish Schools' Cup.
Speaking at Recreation Park, Scottish Hydro Sponsorship manager, Douglas Flowers, said: "Teamwork in all corners of the country between rugby clubs and schools supported by Scottish Rugby, Scottish Hydro and Local Authorities is the key to maximising the opportunities for young people to participate in this great game.
"Today's example of that in action is certainly worthy of winning December's club of the month award."
Club International side named
Four players will make their Scotland Club International debut against France at Netherdale on Friday (kick-off 7.30pm).
Glasgow Hawks lock, Rory McKay, Dundee prop Alan Brown and Melrose pair James King (centre) and Fraser Thomson (wing) have all earned their place in the starting XV while a further five are ready to make their debut from the bench.
Club International Team Manager, Ian Rankin, said: "The days of French teams supposedly not travelling well is long gone. This French team will come here and play with the classic French style - huge powerful forwards and lightning quick backs.
"But in this starting XV we have 11 players that faced the French last season, with another twopoised to play from the bench who all know what they have to face.
"It'll be a tough assignment but hopefully we can get a big Netherdale crowd out to back the team. I've heard the game is of big interest in the Borders but there are a lot of clubs represented by this team.
"There's a real connection between the clubs and their players with the clubs taking a lot of pride and pleasure in being represented in the match. I think that'll be measurable this Friday night."
Scotland Club International team to play France:
15 Fraser Harkness (Selkirk)
14 Fraser Thomson (Melrose)*
13 Malcolm Clapperton (Boroughmuir)
12 James King (Melrose)*
11 Callum Anderson (Melrose)
10 Scott Wight (Melrose)
9 Richard Snedden (Currie)
1 Alan Dymock (Heriot's)
2 Scott Burnett (Heriot's)
3 Alan Brown (Dundee)*
4 Damien Kelly (Ayr)
5 Rory McKay (Glasgow Hawks)*
6 John Dalziel CAPTAIN (Melrose)
8 Ross Weston (Currie) (pictured)
7 Mark Cairns (Currie)
Replacements
16 Gregor Wood (Watsonians)*
17 Gordon Reid (Ayr)
18 Alastair Hamilton (Currie)*
19 Scott Sutherland (Ayr)
20 Paul Burke (Ayr)*
21 Jamie Hunter (Ayr)*
22 Andrew MacMahon (Currie)*
* denotes a debutant
Heriots win
Heriots fought back from a slow start to see off bottom club Stewarts Melville in Scottish Hydro Premier One on Saturday.
The home side took a 14-0 lead at Inverleith, but tries from Alan Dymock, Andy Douglas, Byron Roberts and Phil OConnor gave Heriots a bonus point and after the break they piled on the pain for Stewarts Melville, who despite always fighting hard look destined for the drop.
In the second-half Colin Goudie, Jamie Syme, OConnor and Finlay Gillies all crossed for Heriots before a late consolation score for the hosts through Stuart Ker.
A lot of other Scottish Hydro league matches up and down the country were postponed, with no other encounters going ahead in the top flight.