Rugby: Callam pulls out of sevens squad due to injury

David Callam is poised to withdraw from Scotland's rugby sevens squad for the forthcoming Delhi Commonwealth Games after failing to shake off injury problems.

The 11-times-capped forward was released by Edinburgh at the end of last season and his inclusion in the sevens squad reflected his determination to get back into the fray as quickly as possible, with official encouragement.

However, it is understood that Callam, 27, now wants to concentrate on ensuring a knee problem, which followed on from a long-term absence due to a pelvic complaint, makes as full a recovery as possible should any 15-a-side career options occur.

A replacement for the rangy ball-winner is expected to be announced by Scottish Rugby shortly.

The Evening News has also learned that David Young, 25, Edinburgh prop forward, has had a six-week ban imposed following a citing at the conclusion of Scotland A's summer Nations Cup bid in Romania increased by seven days.

The suspension arising from a 33-13 defeat by Argentine Jaguars will come as a surprise to many followers and Edinburgh coach Rob Moffat acknowledged the issue "has not had much publicity" when discussing front row resources ahead of tomorrow's match at Cardiff.

Referring to the ban which keeps Young out of the Magners League opener Moffat said that opportunity now knocked for new signing Jack Gilding - while keeping a door open for his A international front rower, Young.

An extra prop forward is now allowed on the bench for Magners League matches taking Edinburgh's stand-by contingent up to seven.

Moffat said: "David Young got cited after Scotland A's last game in Romania.

"He is not available until the beginning of October and will miss our first four games."

Playing down any suggestion of Edinburgh being under pressure in the front row department following Ryan Grant's transfer to Glasgow Moffat said: "We have some good young(apprentice) lads such as Nicky Little, Colin Phillips and Robin Hislop although he is still a bit too young and Lewis Niven will be fit in again soon."

But frustration at the absence of Young was clear when hinting the player had been hard done by.

"He was going for the ball (but) they made a stamping and gave him seven weeks," said Moffat in urging the player to continue hard work currently being shown in training.

"Absolutely I'd urge him to keep it going. It is early days and he is only going to miss four games in a long season."

On newcomer Gilding, signed from Worcester, the coach said: "He is normally a tight head prop and (while] Kyle Traynor can cover that role he is more of a loose head."

Cardiff are due to announce their team today amidst fitness worries over British Lions Leigh Halfpenny and Gareth Cooper who is definitely out.

"Cardiff finished last season really well - we definitely respect them," said Moffat in referring to an eight-in-a-row winning streak by the Welshmen.