Three injured Scots leave camp after bruising Bok clash

NEWS: Scotland coach Gregor Townsend was forced to call up two replacements as cover for the injuries his side incurred following their loss to world champions South Africa on Sunday.

Scotland confirmed that three players have left the squad – Max Williamson (hand injury), Jack Dempsey (shoulder), and Gregor Brown (rib).

In their place, Johnny Matthews and Alec Hepburn have been called up.

The No. 8 Dempsey was replaced by Josh Bayliss in the 63rd minute and later emerged with his right arm in a sling.

Townsend told reporters at the post-match press conference that Dempsey “was not looking good at the moment.”

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Squad update: Max Williamson is out of the squad with a hand injury along with Jack Dempsey who has sustained a shoulder injury. Gregor Brown is also out with a rib injury.

Johnny Matthews and Alec Hepburn have been called up.#AsOne pic.twitter.com/wQejvWYDpP

— Scottish Rugby (@Scotlandteam) November 11, 2024

Williamson replaced the red-carded Scott Cummings but picked up a hand injury in the process.

Townsend’s replacements are a hooker (Matthews) and loosehead prop (Hepburn) and oddly do not provide cover for the injured trio in the squad.

Matthews joined the squad before the Boks game after fellow hooker Dylan Richardson picked up a knock in training on Wednesday. Richardson recovered in time to take his place on the bench on Sunday and came on for the final quarter.

But with a six-day turnaround before they face Portugal and first-choice hooker Ewan Ashman among many front-liners likely to be rested, Matthews will compete with Edinburgh’s Patrick Harrison for a place in the 23 against Portugal on Saturday.

Additional source @RugbyPass