New injury puts Walker out of World Cup squad

A SECOND injury in as many games has ruled Scotland winger Nikki Walker out of the Rugby World Cup.

The Ospreys wing was forced off against Ireland two weeks ago with a head knock, but he recovered quickly and was named on the bench for Saturday’s second EMC Test against Italy.

Walker had been locked in a battle with Simon Danielli, the Ulster wing, for the last spot among the backs for the tournament in New Zealand, and he seemed odds-on to have claimed it when he replaced his rival with 30 minutes to go and became a thorn in Italy’s side.

However, with five minutes remaining, Walker was left grounded after a tackle, holding his knee and clearly in pain. Calls for a stretcher made by Scotland doctor James Robson suggested the worst. Walker was taken to hospital for scans and the SRU confirmed that the results showed damage to the medial collateral ligament and ended his World Cup hopes.

The 29-year-old had started seven Tests since returning to the side a year ago and had taken his tally to six tries in 24 caps with his score against Italy in this year’s RBS Six Nations. He was becoming a more consistent performer for Scotland and his ability to attack with pace and power had impressed.

Scotland coach Andy Robinson said: “Nikki has worked exceptionally hard in training and some of the running lines he made when he came off the bench were first-class.

“It’s obviously disappointing for Nikki. We all feel for him but injuries do happen in sport. We wish Nikki a speedy recovery.”

Scotland’s 30-man squad for the Rugby World Cup will be announced at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh this morning.