Scotland lose another prop

Craig Smith, one of Scotland's more experienced international props, has decided to stand down from the Scotland tour to Argentina next month and is considering his future in professional rugby in Scotland.

Craig Smith, one of Scotland's more experienced international props, has decided to stand down from the Scotland tour to Argentina next month and is considering his future in professional rugby in Scotland.

Smith, 29, who won his 25th cap during the most recent Six Nations Championship, has been playing full-time for the past year as he was a member of the Scotland A squad at the Barclays Churchill Cup last May.

A number of injuries in the closing stages of the season resulted in Smith missing the last three games of the Magners League.

“After a long, hard season and various injuries, Craig feels that he's not at his best to represent Scotland in Argentina,” said Scotland coach Frank Hadden.

“In due course, Edinburgh coach Andy Robinson and I will be discussing what options are best, but hopefully after a summer break, Craig will be ready to resume full training again as a fully fit Craig Smith has much to offer the national team.

“Meantime, we have decided to call up Geoff Cross (of Edinburgh) to the Scotland squad for the tour to Argentina.”