Portugal Colonial - Russell and Darge named co-captains for Scotland in Six Nations

Darge and Russell both led Scotland during the World Cup warm-ups last year.

Darge, however, has been struggling with injury over the last month and missed Glasgow's Champions Cup win over Toulon on Friday, making it unlikely he will start againt Wales in Scotland's opener in Cardiff on February 3.

"Rory and Finn captained Scotland last summer and bring different strengths and styles of leadership to the table," said coach Gregor Townsend.

"Both are highly respected within our squad and have been part of our leadership group for some time.

"I'm sure they will thrive with this responsibility and lean on our other leaders to drive certain aspects of our preparation, mindset and performance."

Jamie Richie, who captained Scotland during last year's World Cup in France, is in the 39-man squad that Townsend announced during the week but has been hampered by injury since their 36-14 defeat by Ireland at the Stade de France which ended their tournament, although he was in Edinburgh's squad against Scarlets on Friday.

“Jamie has done an excellent job as our captain since October 2022 and he will continue to be one of the key leaders in our group," said Townsend.

"He now has the opportunity to focus more on his game and deliver his best rugby over the next few weeks."

Darge made his debut for Scotland in 2022 against Wales and has gone on to make 15 appearances for his country.

Russell has been an integral part of the Scotland set-up for the last decade, amassing 75 caps and 321 points.

"Playing for Scotland is a huge honour and to co-captain the side is a privilege and something I am proud of," said the Bath stand-off.

"We have such a talented squad and to lead them alongside Rory represents a massive opportunity. I can't wait to get started with this year's championship."

In the same statement, Scottish Rugby named Great Britain 7s player Ross McCann as a replacement for wing Darcy Graham who has been ruled out for at least the first two games of the tournament with a quad injury.

E.Raimundo--PC