Townsend backs extra Autumn test to better prepare Scots for World Cup
The Scotland head coach has called up a 40-man squad for next month's four fixtures
Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend says the extra Autumn test match this year will better prepare them for next year’s World Cup.
He's called up a 40 man squad as they prepare to play four matches in four weeks - one more than usual.
Townsend says the players must get used to the quick turnover in games.
"It's great preparation for tournaments like the World Cup, in that you do play four games in four weeks" he said.
"On one of those weeks you're going to play two games in four days so players will have to get used to backing up test matches but I don't think every player will start every game.
The Scots will kick off their Autumn test matches with a trip to the Principality Stadium to face Wales on 3 November.
Townsend's called up three uncapped players to his squad: Scarlets back-row Blade Thomson, Exeter Chiefs lock Sam Skinner and Glasgow Warriors centre Sam Johnson.