Scotland A's Nations Cup opponents are revealed

THE opponents Scotland A will face in Romania in June when they defend their IRB Nations Cup crown were revealed yesterday.

The 'A' team, then under the command of Andy Robinson, gave Scottish rugby a massive lift last year when they triumphed in Bucharest, as well as enhancing the Englishman's prospects of stepping up to the head coach role when Frank Hadden departed after the Six Nations.

The fifth IRB Nations Cup will take place in the National Arcul de Triumf Stadium, Bucharest over three match days from 11-20 June.

As well as Scotland A, this year's tournament features hosts Romania, Georgia and Namibia. Italy A and the Argentina Jaguars complete a blend of A teams from Tier One Unions and full test teams from Tier Two Unions.

"We are delighted with the line-up for this year's IRB Nations Cup and particularly pleased to welcome Namibia back following their last appearance in 2007, and Georgia, who played in last year's Churchill Cup," said the chairman of the IRB, Bernard Lapasset.

"The IRB Nations Cup is a very important event for our Tier Two Unions as they prepare for Rugby World Cup 2011 and equally important for Argentina, who are increasing their elite playing structures in preparation for inclusion in an expanded Tri Nations tournament from 2012 onwards."

IRB Head of Development and Performance Mark Egan added: "Tier One Unions such as Italy, Argentina and Scotland find this tournament an invaluable platform for developing their A team programmes, which play a very important role in expanding their pool of players capable of making the step up to full international honours."

Fixtures: Friday, 11 June

Namibia v Romania, Argentina Jaguars v Italy A, Scotland A v Georgia

Tuesday, 15 June

Italy A v Georgia, Scotland A v Namibia, Romania v Argentina Jaguars

Sunday, 20 June

Georgia v Namibia, Italy A v Romania, Argentina Jaguars v Scotland A