Richie Gray: I never burnt my bridges with Gregor Townsend

Richie Gray has expressed delight at his return to the Scotland squad and stressed there was no fall-out with coach Gregor Townsend.

Richie Gray during Scotland training at Oriam. Picture: Craig Williamson/SNS

The 65-times capped lock forward has not played for the national side for over two-and-a-half years and asked not to be considered for the 2019 Rugby World Cup following the birth of his son.

He has been beset by injuries in recent seasons but is now fit and jumped at the chance to be part of Townsend’s squad for the autumn internationals.

“Gregor sent me a text on the Sunday night to say I was involved and I texted back straight away to say that I can’t wait to be a part of it,” said Gray “It is just great because I’m in a far better place than I was at World Cup time.”

Gray, who missed this year’s Six Nations due to injury, dismissed suggestions that his long absence could have damaged his relationship with Townsend.

“I wasn’t available around the Six Nations time and with regards to Gregor there was never any burnt bridges, it was just a case of having a conversation, him respecting my decision. I have always had a great relationship with Gregor and, when he got in touch on Sunday night, I was delighted to get back in.”

Gray is back playing his club rugby in Scotland after he rejoined Glasgow Warriors in the summer following eight seasons in England and France with Sale Sharks, Castres and Toulouse.

Scotland open their autumn campaign against Georgia at Murrayfield next Friday night.

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