Finn Russell out of Scots clash with South Africa

FLY-HALF Finn Russell will miss Scotland’s potentially decisive World Cup clash with South Africa after failing to shake off an ankle knock.

Scotland's Finn Russell during a pool recovery session. Picture: PA

The influential playmaker has been key to Scotland’s opening two wins over Japan and the United States but remains on crutches after injuring his ankle in Sunday’s victory over the Eagles in Leeds.

Head coach Vern Cotter - who has announced 10 changes in his team to face the Springboks in Newcastle this Saturday - will now put his faith in Russell’s Glasgow team-mate Duncan Weir as he seeks the win which could clinch the Dark Blues a quarter-final slot.

Scotland team: Stuart Hogg, Tommy Seymour, Richie Vernon, Matt Scott, Tim Visser, Duncan Weir, Greig Laidlaw (captain); David Denton, Blair Cowan, Josh Strauss, Jonny Gray, Richie Gray, Willem Nel, Fraser Brown, Gordon Reid.

Reserves: Ross Ford, Alasdair Dickinson, Jon Welsh, Tim Swinson, Ryan Wilson, Sam Hidalgo-Clyne, Peter Horne, Sean Lamont.