Shade Munro were today named assistant coaches of the Scotland ‘A’ team alongside Gregor Townsend ahead of next month’s international against Georgia which is to be staged at Firhill on Friday 14 November (kick-off 6pm).

Townsend, Scotland’s third most capped player and a member of the victorious 1997 British Lions tour to South Africa, joins the ‘A’ team following a successful term within the coaching ranks of Edinburgh.

Speaking at Murrayfield today, Townsend said: “I was delighted to be asked by Andy [Robinson] to be involved with the ‘A’ team and I know what a great responsibility I have to be in charge of the backs.

“It’s going to be a big challenge to prepare for what is in essence a Test match against Georgia at Firhill.”

On his recent experience with Edinburgh, he added: “My involvement with Edinburgh has enabled me to learn from guys like Andy and Rob Moffat. It’s interesting to not only see how they deliver sessions but also how they prepare for training and preview upcoming games, that experience will be invaluable in the build up to the Georgia game.”

Townsend is Programme Manager with Winning Scotland Foundation. An independent business-led charity, the Foundation are working to create a positive winning attitude throughout Scotland. Coaching is a key area for the Foundation who believe that creating outstanding role models and mentors in sport is critical to success in sport and in life. The Foundation are delighted to offer Townsend’s support to Scottish Rugby to be involved with Scotland A, which will also enable him to enhance his development as a coach.

Completing the coaching team, which is led by current Edinburgh head coach Andy Robinson, is Glasgow Warriors assistant coach and seven-times-capped Scotland international, Shade Munro.

Munro, who has also been capped at ‘A’ level, has great experience with coaching the ‘A’ team having been to two Churchill Cup finals in that capacity.

He said: “I’ve really enjoyed the experience of working with the ‘A’ team. It’s a special role that is entirely different to my day-to-day work with Glasgow because you have so little time to prepare a group of players that might only have met for the first time at training.

”However, I’m always impressed with the passion and enthusiasm of the players and I know that the Georgia game will be a unique challenge for all of us and one which I’m looking forward to alongside Andy and Gregor.”

Details on ticket prices and how to purchase will be announced shortly.