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Scottish second row combo

Scotland are likely to take the following 4 locks to the RWC this autumn: Richie Gray, Jim Hamilton, Nathan Hines and Al Kellock. For once, we appear to have a nice problem to have in that most of these players (with the possible exclusion of Kellock, altho even that may be harsh) appear to have been hitting top form for their clubs this season.

Gray was outstanding for Scotland during the 6Ns, and would make it into most folks' B&I Lions teams if one were to be picked right now. For a big man, he is incredibly athletic, carries the ball well, gets around the field to do more than his fair share of tackles, and is always a threat in a defensive lineout situation in addition to being able to secure his own ball.

Hamilton seems to have recovered well from the injury that affected him mid-season and his grunt and niggle have at least been partly responsible for Glaws' renaissance. Sometimes criticised for his workrate, he seems to have been covering a lot of grass in the last few games I've seen him play, and will do the dirty work for a team all day long.

Hines for me has in many ways been as important as Rocky Elsom to Leinster's arrival as the pre-eminent team in Europe. He gives any pack some necessary steal, has carried well, and has very soft hands in offloading for a big man. His ill-discipline is perhaps much exaggerated - there has been little evidence of it of late.

Lastly, Kellock found it took longer to come back from surgery over the summer after leading Scotland's successful tour to Argentina, but he has been Robbo's choice for captain when available. A threat in the lineout on oppo ball, secure on his own, and a great organiser around the pitch generally, Kellock will always give his all for Scotland.

So which combination would you go for and why?

posted on 26/5/11

Grey and Hines. Grey because he was the outstanding lock in the 6 Nations. He is better than Courtney Lawes. Nathan Hines because of his experience and workrate. He should play the Bakkies role to Grey's Matfield . This is the one area where Scotland are particularly strong.

posted on 27/5/11

GOD BLESS SCOTLAND

posted on 27/5/11

Gray and Kellock. Good to hear from you As Long as. Any idea why there are so many wendyballers about ?

posted on 6/6/11

Schitzoid I take it you are a Rangers fan?

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