If Kellock and Cusiter are ruled out, Blair (right) may lead Scotland in November

Glasgow duo Chris Cusiter and Alastair Kellock are injury doubts for Scotland's autumn internationals.

Lock Kellock, who led Scotland to an historic first series win in Argentina in June, has had a knee operation and will miss the start of the season.

And scrum-half Cusiter, who did not figure on the trip to South America due to a knee problem, is also to undergo further surgery next week.

Scotland host New Zealand, South Africa and Samoa in November.

If Kellock and Cusiter miss out, head coach Andy Robinson will need to select a new skipper, with Mike Blair among the likely contenders.

The Edinburgh scrum-half shared the captaincy with Cusiter on Robinson's appointment but Rory Lawson impressed in the number nine jersey when starting in both Tests against Argentina.

Cusiter has not played since injuring his knee in Glasgow's final regular league game in May and is almost certain to miss the November Tests, while Kellock may have a chance of recovering in time to play some part.

"I'll be working as hard as possible, as soon as my knee allows, to be back in time," he told the Glasgow website.

Scotland team doctor James Robson added: "Al had a follow-up procedure last week on his knee injury and he will be working on his recovery with the Glasgow Warriors medical team.

"The hope is that he will be available for consideration for the autumn Tests."

The news is a further blow for Glasgow, who reached the inaugural Magners League play-offs last season.

The Firhill club have a long injury list, with John Barclay, Johnnie Beattie, James Eddie, Colin Gregor, Dougie Hall and Dave McCall among those sidelined and expected to miss the start of the new campaign.

Jon Welsh (leg), Graeme Morrison (knee) and Richie Vernon (shoulder) are not ready for Friday's friendly with Sale but are closing in on a return to full fitness.

* BBC Radio Scotland will provide coverage of Glasgow v Sale Sharks (kick off 1930 BST)

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version