Finn Russell sent home from Scotland 6 Nations squad

Finn Russell was told he would not be selected to face Ireland in Scotland’s Guinness Six Nations opener after he failed to show up for Monday’s training session following a late-night drinking session, it is understood.

Russell’s participation in the entire tournament is now in serious doubt after he turned down an offer to stay in camp and help Gregor Townsend’s men prepare for next Saturday’s Aviva Stadium clash.

The 27-year-old arrived in Edinburgh last Sunday after travelling north from London, where he had been in action for club side Racing 92 against Saracens, and spent the evening drinking in the Dark Blues’ team hotel.

A Scotland team spokesperson said on the Scottish Rugby Twitter account: “Stand-off Finn Russell will play no further part in preparations for Scotland’s Six Nations opener against Ireland, having been disciplined for a breach of team protocol during the week’s camp in Edinburgh. He has returned to his club.”

Russell is one international appearance away from his 50th cap.

He played under Townsend for Glasgow Warriors before the latter left Warriors to become Scotland head coach in 2017.