Scotland optimistic Mark Bennett will be fit to face England

Hopes have been raised that Scotland centre Mark Bennett could yet play a part in Saturday's Calcutta Cup opener in the Six Nations at BT Murrayfield.

Mark Bennett was in relaxed mood in training as Scotland talked up his chances of facing England. Picture: SNS

The Glasgow Warriors player has been out with a shoulder injury since 9 January and last week was rated at “50-50” for the clash with England. However, Scotland backs coach Matt Taylor said there was a “good chance” Bennett could take the field.

“Mark is taking full training today. He’ll be doing all the contact and everything so he’s back in the mix,” said Taylor. “It’s his first day back in terms of contact but he was around the team last week.

“I think he’s got a good chance [of playing on Saturday]. A fully fit Mark Bennett is a very good player. He’ll have to put his best foot forward today in training, because we haven’t finalised the team. I’m sure he will do.

“It definitely gives us a lift. There was a reason why he played so well in the World Cup and it’s great he’s back in the mix because the more people we have fully fit and ready to go, the stronger we are as a group.”

All players involved in weekend club action reported back to camp fit.