Chris Cusiter was forced out of the match against New Zealand

The 23-year-old was forced to limp off after 20 minutes of Scotland's 29-10 defeat by New Zealand on Saturday and had his scan delayed due to swelling.

But a Scottish Rugby Union spokesman said: "It gave encouraging evidence.

"Reivers head coach Steve Bates is hoping to have Chris running at the beginning of next week."

Cusiter's injury cast a shadow over the brave display that saw the Scots take the game to their 'grand slam' chasing opponents.

The scrum-half said: "New Zealand got a turnover, put it wide and I was coming across to try and defend the attack.

"Their full-back, Isaia Toeava, stepped in and I hit him with my right shoulder, but because I was at an awkward position, my knee got caught underneath me.

"As I made the hit, I must have wrenched the knee the wrong way and strained the ligaments.

"There is nothing you can do. I tried to run it off, but I couldn't, so I had to come off."