Grant Gilchrist banned from Scotland's Six Nations opener against Wales after red card for Edinburgh

Grant Gilchrist will miss Scotland’s opening Six Nations game against Wales after receiving a one-week suspension for the red card he was given while playing for Edinburgh.

The Edinburgh co-captain was shown two yellow cards in the 31-19 Challenge Cup win over Scarlets last Friday, both for head contact.

The 33-year-old accepted the verdict of the independent judicial officer and will miss Scotland’s visit to the Principality Stadium on Saturday, February 3.

Gregor Townsend’s side will be looking to make another strong start to the Six Nations after a disappointing pool-stage exit at last year’s Rugby World Cup.

Gilchrist will be free to play again as of Monday, February 5, meaning he will be available for selection for Scotland’s second fixture against France, their first game at Murrayfield.

The second row was sent off against France last year for a high tackle after just six minutes and was subsequently suspended for three weeks.

Scotland won their first two games of last year’s tournament, the first time they had managed back-to-back Six Nations victories, but couldn’t carry that momentum forward to sustain a title challenge and finished third.

The Scots will be led by Rory Darge and Finn Russell after the pair were named as new co-captains, replacing Jamie Ritchie who is still in the squad.

Townsend’s other options at second row include experienced duo Richie Gray and Scott Cummings, as well as Gilchrist’s club-mate Sam Skinner, who has recently returned from injury.

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