Taylor Returns To Scotland Training

No 8 Simon Taylor returned to Scotland training today as preparations began in earnest for Saturday’s international against Canada in Aberdeen.  British Lion Taylor (Stade Francais) had to withdraw from the opening Bank of Scotland Corporate Autumn Test against New Zealand on account of a calf strain – and the injury did not relent in time to be involved against South Africa last weekend.However, after being put through his paces by rehab physiotherapist Stephen Mutch, Taylor joined the practice on the international pitch at Murrayfield and emerged untroubled.Taylor is among ten players added to the 22 who were on duty against South Africa. Eight of the additions were involved in the 69-3 Scotland A victory against Georgia – backs Rob Dewey, Max Evans, Mark Robertson, Nikki Walker and Simon Webster and forwards Kelly Brown, Geoff Cross and Alastair Kellock. Completing the list is back-row forward Alasdair Strokosch.Some seven players were ruled out of Scotland training today on account of injuries from the South Africa match:  Thom Evans (leg and arm); Jim Hamilton (ankle irritation); Allister Hogg (stitches above right eye); Rory Lamont (shoulder and leg knocks); Euan Murray (mild strain to his knee); Chris Paterson (blow to his left cheek); and Jason White (neck).Tickets for Scotland’s trip to Pittodrie on Saturday are on sale now priced£15,£20 and£30 for adults and£7.50,£10 and£15 for under-18s. They are available from the Scottish Rugby website (www.scottishrugby.org ); from the 24 hour credit card hotline 0131 346 5100; and, in person at the Scottish Rugby Ticket Centre, Murrayfield Stadium, which is open from 9am-8pm, Monday to Friday. You can also buy through the Aberdeen FC Ticket Centre at Pittodrie, open 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday. Please note a booking fee applies to all transactions and there are no tickets on sale on match day.