Gregor Townsend is vastly experienced

The Borders player, who was won 77 caps for his country, twisted his knee and Murrayfield medical staff immediately sent him to a an orthopaedic surgeon for a specialist opinion.

Townsend subsequently underwent keyhole surgery in a bid to cure the problem.

He has now started a programme of rehabilitation with team physiotherapist Stuart Barton and his progress will be monitored.

Scotland team manager Dougie Morgan said: "We are pleased with Gregor's progress and are confident that there's no threat to his participation in the World Cup."

However, Scotland have injury worries over lock Scott Murray and props Tom Smith and Bruce Douglas. All, however, are expected to be fit in time for the trip to Australia.