Glasgow 2014: Stuart Hogg to make sevens debut

Stuart Hogg: Set for Ibrox. Picture: Getty

The 22-year-old Glasgow full-back replaces Tommy Seymour, who has been forced to withdraw from the group preparing to take on Pool A rivals New Zealand, Canada and Barbados at Ibrox on 26 July.

Warriors wing Seymour sustained a neck injury during the Dark Blues’ 55-6 defeat by South Africa on Saturday, ruling him out of action at Glasgow 2014.

But Scotland Sevens head coach Stevie Gemmell insists the inclusion of 24-times-capped Hogg – the youngest player called up for last year’s successful Lions tour of Australia – means his squad will not be weakened.

He said: “It is disappointing to lose Tommy, however I’m delighted to be able to bring a player of Stuart Hogg’s calibre into our Commonwealth Games squad and would like to thank Team Scotland, Scottish Rugby and Glasgow Warriors for helping make this selection happen.” Hogg will win his first sevens caps when the action kicks off in just under four weeks’ time but he is familiar with the short game having grown up in Hawick, where he played on the sevens circuit.

Gemmell added: “Stuart is somebody who has shown at every level of his XVs career what he is capable of. He is a player who excites fans and he has shown time and time again he can contribute significantly in both attack and defence.

“Though he has not yet played international sevens he comes from a background in the Borders that has been heavily influenced by the abbreviated game. His game understanding, along with the skills he has developed as a professional will prove a strong addition to our group. I’m excited about him joining the squad and contributing to a successful performance at Ibrox.”

Meanwhile, Hawick have confirmed the appointment of former Scotland winger Nikki Walker as player/coach for the coming season. The 32-year-old, who is still contracted to Edinburgh Rugby, will take over from Phil Leck and will also continue playing for the Greens next season. Walker, capped 24 times for his country, said: ”I am really grateful to Edinburgh for allowing me to do this.”

The appointment was announced at the club’s annual general meeting on Tuesday. Ross Cameron takes over as President from Rory Bannerman, and John Thorburn was named as Vice-President, while Isobel Cunningham was made a Life Member of the club.