Simon Taylor, the 25-year-old Scotland and British & Irish Lions
ck-row forward, is on the verge of making his long-awaited comeback
from injury under unusual circumstances.
Taylor is being loaned by the SRU to Zurich Premiership side Saracens
for one week only, in order to give him some precious time on the field.
The 35 times capped Taylor – who has suffered a cruel run of injuries
since he first damaged his knee on the 2001 Lions tour to Australia –
damaged his knee against Ireland in last year’s Six Nations Championship.
He underwent surgery and has worked diligently on his rehab programme
and is now ready to resume playing.
SRU Director of Rugby Ian McGeechan said: "Firstly we’re delighted
that Simon is ready to return to match action and alongside the
national management team we are keen to see him back in contention for
Scotland duty as soon as possible.
"Obviously if Edinburgh Rugby had had any fixture either this weekend
or next then that would have given him the opportunity to get matches
under his belt. But, as there are no Celtic League fixtures over the
next fortnight and, as professional players cannot play for clubs in
the BT Premiership, we have looked further afield and have agreed a
temporary loan with Saracens."
The loan is for one week from tomorrow (Thursday 3 February) and will
mean that Taylor has a chance of playing in Saracens’ away fixture
against Northampton Saints on Saturday (5 February) and in a friendly
against South African Super 12 side The Cats on Wednesday 9 February.
Taylor said: "I’m very excited just to be playing again in quite
strange circumstances. I’m ready to go but I’d caution against
expecting miracles."
Saracens Director of Rugby Steve Diamond said: "We are delighted to be
able to offer Simon his introduction back to top-class rugby after his
unfortunate injury. We wish him all the best and hope he can be ready
to return to the international arena soon."
