Dan Biggar's '˜excellent progress' in bid to face Scotland

Wales will decide whether outside-half Dan Biggar is fit enough to play against Scotland. Picture: PA

Biggar was forced off in the first half of Sunday’s RBS Six Nations 16-16 draw with Ireland in Dublin with what coach Warren Gatland described as a “high ankle sprain” and there were fears the 26-year-old could be out for some time.

But a Welsh Rugby Union statement said yesterday: “Dan Biggar has made excellent progress with his recovery following the ankle injury. Indications are it is not  considered long term.

“Decisions over his availability for this weekend to face Scotland will be made later in the week.”

Rhys Priestland replaced Biggar at the Aviva Stadium and the Bath No 10 provided 11 points with his boot.

But Biggar’s absence for the Scotland game in Cardiff on Saturday would represent a huge blow, as the 26-year-old Osprey was probably Wales’ best performer at the Rugby World Cup last autumn.

The Wales squad meet back up again at their Vale of  Glamorgan base today. Gatland had been scheduled to name his side today but that is now set to be pushed back to tomorrow as Wales wait to see how Biggar’s ankle responds to treatment.

Full-back Gareth Anscombe should be fit for selection after missing out in Dublin.

Anscombe was selected to start the game but withdrew because of a tight hamstring and was replaced by Liam Williams. However, Scarlets full-back Williams could retain his place as Wales go in search of a ninth consecutive victory over Scotland.

Meanwhile, Eddie Jones has hinted England might make changes for Sunday’s Six Nations clash with Italy in Rome. Jack Clifford made his debut off the bench in the 15-9 opening win in Edinburgh and head coach Jones said: “We’ll pick the best 23 for Italy so we could conceivably pick a faster pack. It’s our next game. All I’m worried about is Italy,” Jones said.