Scotland change three in pack for clash against Italy

Scotland changed three forwards and retained the same backline for the Six Nations rugby match against Italy in Rome on Saturday.

Hooker Scott Lawson, British Lions lock Richie Gray and No 8 Johnnie Beattie were recalled, and Ross Ford, Tim Swinson and David Denton dropped to the reserves.

Gray wasn’t even in the match day 23 during the dismal 20-0 loss to England at Murrayfield, when Denton was considered Scotland’s best performer.

Openside flanker Chris Fusaro, who made a low-profile test debut in the game, was retained ahead of former captain Kelly Brown, who failed to make the squad again.

“We’ve made the changes to the pack with a view to improving the supply and quality of possession,” coach Scott Johnson said.

“Italy are formidable opponents, especially in Rome, and Scotland’s matches against them in recent years have been a real arm wrestle.

“We’re all hurting at the results of the first two games but the players we’ve chosen have the chance to do something that can make our supporters proud this weekend.”

Scotland and Italy have yet to win after two rounds, but Italy have impressed a lot more away in Wales and France.

Scotland line-up

Stuart Hogg, Tommy Seymour, Alex Dunbar, Matt Scott, Sean Lamont, Duncan Weir, Greig Laidlaw (captain); Johnnie Beattie, Chris Fusaro, Ryan Wilson, Jim Hamilton, Richie Gray, Moray Low, Scott Lawson, Ryan Grant.

Replacements: Ross Ford, Alasdair Dickinson, Geoff Cross, Tim Swinson, David Denton, Chris Cusiter, Duncan Taylor, Max Evans.