Huge blow for Scotland as Darcy Graham ruled out of Springboks clash

Yesterday at 01:16 PM

Scotland winger Darcy Graham will miss this weekend's Autumn Nations clash against South Africa at Scottish Gas Murrayfield.

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The world champions’ visit comes as Graham was just finding his rhythm, scoring a stunning four tries in last week's victory over Fiji. H

owever, his comeback was cut short after he was forced off in the second half, having failed a head injury assessment (HIA).

Head coach Gregor Townsend has now confirmed Graham won't be lining up against the Springboks.

"Darcy unfortunately failed his HI2 and his HI3, so he’ll be ruled out for this weekend," Townsend said, delivering a blow to fans who were eager to see the Hawick-born flyer face off against the world's top team.

Return to form delayed

Graham's absence is yet another setback in what has been a tough year for him. After being sidelined for most of the last 12 months with injury, Graham only recently returned to the field.

The game against Fiji was his first Scotland appearance since the World Cup opener against Ireland over a year ago. Graham's four-try haul briefly put him level with Edinburgh teammate Duhan van der Merwe for Scotland's try-scoring record, before van der Merwe reclaimed the lead.

12-day protocol before potential Portugal return

Graham's road to recovery will follow strict concussion protocols, as Townsend explained: “It’s a 12-day period, so he’ll do nothing for the next three days, then he starts the graduated return to play."

If all goes according to plan, Graham could be back in the lineup when Scotland takes on Portugal in their next fixture.

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