Scrum-halves McMillan and Lawson are winning their fitness battles

Scotland coach Frank Hadden has received better injury news ahead of November's autumn Tests.

Injuries to Hadden's three first-choice scrum-halves, Chris Cusiter, Rory Lawson and Mark McMillan, cast doubt over their ability to play.

But, Lawson's rib problem is not as bad as first feared, while McMillan could resume training by Friday.

Cusiter will miss the series with a broken thumb which will require surgery and a six-week lay-off.

Scotland are currently in La Manga, Spain, at a warm-weather training camp.

It was there at training on Monday that Glasgow Warriors' McMillan received shoulder and hip knocks, while Lawson suffered his injury in Gloucester's match against Dragons.

Team doctor James Robson said: "Rory was seen on Tuesday by a specialist.

"He had a scan and that showed he did have some damage to his rib cartilage area.

"But, the injury does not seem to be as bad as first feared, and he will be re-assessed on Thursday.

"We hope Mark will be able to progress to the extent he may be able to resume training before the end of the week."

Scotland face New Zealand on 8 November, South Africa seven days later and then Canada on 22 November.

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