Four changes to Scotland team to face Ireland in Six Nations clash

Gregor Townsend's side have not played for four weeks following the postponement of their match against France due to a Covid-19 outbreak in the French camp.

The Scots lost 25-24 at home to Wales on their last outing, a week after opening their Six Nations campaign with a stunning 11-6 win over England at Twickenham.

For the match against Ireland, WP Nel is promoted from the bench to start at tighthead prop in the absence of the suspended Zander Fagerson who was sent off against Wales.

Jamie Ritchie, who missed the Wales game with a hamstring injury, returns to the starting line-up at blindside flanker in place of Blade Thomson.

There are two changes in the backs. Sam Johnson comes in at inside centre with James Lang dropping out of the squad.

Sean Maitland, who also missed the Wales game through injury, is picked on the wing in place of Darcy Graham, who drops to the bench.

Among the substitutes, there are recalls for Grant Gilchrist, Jamie Bhatti, and Nick Haining.

The game on Sunday will be screened live on BBC1 and kicks off at 3pm.

Here is the Scotland starting XV:

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