Scottish Rugby appoints two new medical roles to replace long-serving doctor as March appointment falls through

Scottish Rugby have confirmed the appointments of two medical roles in the wake of Dr James Robson’s retirement.

Dr David Pugh has been named as chief medical officer (CMO) and Dr Jonathan Hanson will take on the role of team doctor for the men’s national team. The SRU states that “both have been actively involved in supporting Scottish Rugby for close to 20 years through consultancy roles as well as regular team doctor positions at pro and representative team level.”

The SRU announced in March that Dr Douglas Hammond would take up the role as chief medical officer, but the position was not able to be filled “due to unforeseen circumstances”, with Dr Pugh now taking over the vacancy.

Dr David Pugh and Dr Jonathan Hanson have been appointed by the SRU.

Speaking on his appointment, Dr Pugh said: “I am delighted to accept the role of Scottish Rugby's Chief Medical Officer. It has been my sporting ambition for many years. I have been very fortunate to have worked with many major teams in Scotland during my career so far, but rugby has been my own sport since childhood, and it is great to be able to give something back to the game I love.”

Dr Hanson said: “I’m fortunate to have had a 20-year rugby medicine training programme under Dr James Robson through our age groups and professional teams. I've learned a lot about medicine in many other sports and I am looking to bring that experience to the Scotland men's team for the next Rugby World Cup Cycle.”