BLAIR Cowan has been called up to the Scotland squad as a replacement for Grant Gilchrist, who was ruled out of the Rugby World Cup with a groin injury sustained in the win over the United States. The openside flanker, who has 13 caps, met up with his team-mates at their Newcastle base yesterday morning, having been told the night before by head coach Vern Cotter that he was being called up.

“It was a bit of a shock,” said Cowan, who had been training with his club, London Irish, for their game on Friday against Harlequins. “I had to tie up a few things with the club - I was supposed to play this Friday. Then it was just getting the mind ready and packing the bags and heading up this morning - 4.30 from the door.”

The withdrawal of Gilchrist, which was announced on Monday, leaves three locks - Richie and Jonny Gray and Tim Swinson - competing for the two places against South Africa. No 8 David Denton can also provide second-row cover if needed, while Cowan gives head coach Vern Cotter more options in the back row.

The selection of John Hardie as the only specialist No 7 was the most controversial element of the original squad of 31, and the risk in choosing only one was made clear at the weekend, when Hardie was ruled out of the USA match after failing a head-injury test administered after he took a knock against Japan. Hardie has yet to pass that test and so is a doubt for the South Africa match on Saturday.

Finn Russell remains a serious doubt for that game because of an ankle injury. The stand-off currently has a moon boot on the damaged foot and is walking with crutches.