Laidlaw takes on Scots' captaincy

 

The 31-times capped scrumhalf takes the mantle from 24-year-old lock Grant Gilchrist, who was ruled out of the series after fracturing his forearm in Edinburgh Rugby's European Challenge Cup win over Lyon, just four days after being accorded the honour.

 

Laidlaw, who skippered Edinburgh Rugby for the three seasons before departing for Gloucester in the summer, has led Scotland on seven occasions to date, two of which were in Cotter's first Tests as head coach in the recent June tour – wins over USA and Canada.

 

Cotter said: "Obviously we're disappointed for Grant [Gilchrist], who misses the opportunity to captain his country at home on this occasion, however congratulations must now go to Greig who takes on that responsibility for this Saturday's game.

 

"Greig offers us a bit of continuity, having captained the side in the June Tests.

 

"He's been playing well for Gloucester and I think he deserves this selection.

 

"He offers us a combination of good tactical nous and good leadership.

 

"He's got experience, he reads the game and communicates well with his teammates, so his appointment is due to a combination of factors.

 

"He's an exceptionally competitive player and everyone respects his desire to win, to drive Scotland forward and perform well.”

 

Cotter also confirmed that 22-times capped Edinburgh Rugby No.8 David Denton has been added to the Scotland squad.

 

Denton last played for his country against Wales in the Six Nations in March, having missed the June Tests with concussion.

 

A hamstring injury sustained in pre-season then kept him out of the first seven weeks of the 2014/15 season before returning to action in his club's win over Lyon in the European Rugby Challenge Cup last month.