SCOTLAND Stuart McInally replaces David Cherry after the hooker suffered concussion at the team hotel. Scotland play their second Rugby World Cup match against Tonga after their opening match defeat to South Africa
Last updated: 09/14/23 at 1:14 pm
Stuart McInally
Stuart McInally has been added to Scotland’s World Cup squad after team-mate Dave Cherry from Edinburgh suffered concussion in an incident at the team hotel on Monday.
The 32-year-old slipped down the stairs at the team hotel on a day off and was hit in the head. He is now following return-to-play protocols, making him unavailable for at least 12 days.
Therefore, the decision was made to end Chery’s participation in his first World Cup for medical reasons.
David Cherry’s Rugby World Cup was ended after he suffered concussion at the team hotel
The situation has afforded McInally a remarkable and unexpected career.
The 33-year-old announced earlier this summer that he would retire after the World Cup, but after being part of the temporary training group throughout the pre-season, he was omitted when Gregor Townsend announced his final 33-man squad last month.
McInally, who led Scotland to the last World Cup final in Japan, arrived in France last week as a reserve player after Ewan Ashman suffered concussion.
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Defending champions South Africa began their World Cup campaign with a win over Scotland, Sky Sports Eleanor Roper reported.
However, he has been officially included in the squad to replace Sherri, who appeared as a second-half substitute in South Africa’s 18-3 defeat on Sunday.
Cherry told Scottish Rugby: “I’m very disappointed to leave the team with a concussion.
“I loved my time in camp over the summer and played my first World Cup match on Sunday.
“I want to wish the team all the best for the remainder of the competition.”
Ashman continues the return to play protocol and is currently on track to be available for selection for next Sunday’s match against Tonga in Nice.
