An element of mystery hung over Allan Jacobsen's absence from the Scotland squad yesterday after Andy Robinson, the head coach, offered only part explanation.

"On the bench, you'll see that Allan Jacobsen is not involved," he said. "He's not involved because of personal reasons. I would like you to respect that, that's all I'm going to say. I would like to talk about it at some stage but it won't be until after the weekend. If you could please respect that it would certainly help the situation."

Asked to clarify whether "personal reasons" meant it was not related to rugby Robinson hesitated before replying: "I've got to leave it at that."