British and Irish Lions

Scotland head coach Frank Hadden has received a major RBS 6 Nations boost after Gregor Townsend returned from injury in the International Invitational sevens tournament in Dubai.

The 32-year-old has not played since breaking his ankle in Celtic League action with the Border Reivers in September.

Hadden is hoping to include the record Scotland cap holder in his squad for the RBS 6 Nations, which starts in February against France.

Now, after playing with the Bone Steelers team against the Tremblers and St George - the England back-up squad - Townsend could make his full return in the European tie with Brive next Sunday.

He said: "It was tiring and hot out there but I enjoyed it and the team played some good rugby.

"I was pleased to get back on the pitch though after a frustrating spell."

Townsend added: "My ankle was sore when I went in for a tackle against St George but I think that is just because I have not taken contact for a while."

The Brumbies pair of Ben Mowen and Christian Leali'ifano will get the chance to follow in the footsteps of their team mates by beating the British & Irish Lions when they make their Qantas Wallaby Test debuts against the tourists in Brisbane on Saturday.

Rob Howley says having George North available for selection is a major plus for the British & Irish Lions as they go in search of the tries he believes will be needed to beat the Qantas Wallabies this Saturday.