Bridge of Allan rugby star named as Scotland co-captain as Six Nations campaign looms

Bridge of Allan rugby star Finn Russell has been handed the Scotland captaincy ahead of the Six Nations.

The talismanic stand-off will lead his Scotland side as co-captain – along with Glasgow flanker Rory Darge.

Both players have captained Scotland already this season with Darge leading Scotland to victory over Italy in the summer and the following week Russell, 31, took on the mantle in a memorable comeback victory over France at Murrayfield.

Bath star Russell made his Scotland debut 10 years ago and has been an integral part of the Scotland squad ever since, collecting his 75th cap for Scotland at the Rugby World Cup, amassing 321 points thus far.

Speaking following the appointments, a beaming Russell said: “Playing for Scotland is a huge honour and to co-captain the side is a privilege and something I’m proud of.

“We have such a talented squad and to lead them alongside Rory represents a massive opportunity. I can’t wait to get started with this year’s championship.

“Rory has been a key player for us since he made his debut and leads by example during matches and in training. We’ll both have different leadership styles which will complement each other and ultimately benefit the team as we go into the tournament.”

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend added: “Appointing co-captains for this year’s Guinness Six Nations allows us to further grow and develop the leadership within the squad.

“Rory and Finn captained Scotland last summer and bring different strengths and styles of leadership to the table.

“Both are highly respected within our squad and have been part of our leadership group for some time. I’m sure they will thrive with this responsibility and lean on our other leaders to drive certain aspects of our