The China Mail - Scotland boss Townsend picks veterans Gray and Cherry for Six Nations

The inclusion of the pair was notable given neither has played for Scotland since last year's Six Nations.

Cherry, 35, was Scotland's first-choice hooker in the 2025 tournament, but appeared to have drifted out of contention after joining French second-tier side Vannes.

Bordeaux-Begles lock Gray started four of the Scots' five championship matches last year but, like Cherry, was not selected for either the July or November campaigns.

Townsend believes Cherry, who has 16 caps, will offer valuable experience.

"Dave's been in really good form this year," said the Scotland coach. "He played very well in last year's Six Nations.

"He was a bit of a glue player for us around his set-piece and in attack and defence. He missed the summer tour with injury and we decided to look at different options in November.

"We feel his experience is really important throughout the Six Nations."

Townsend admitted 31-year-old Gray's opportunities at European champions Bordeaux had been limited but said he was in "really good form".

"He's looking fit and sharp, his work-rate is outstanding," he said of the player, who has 81 caps.

Glasgow centre Sione Tuipulotu will again be Scotland captain, with fly-half Finn Russell embarking on a 12th Six Nations campaign.

Scotland's record try-scorer Duhan van der Merwe has endured a frustrating season and was left out of the squad for the match against the All Blacks in November.

But Townsend said the injury-hit 30-year-old was "finding his form and he just needs to get some more games".

Notable omissions include Andy Onyeama-Christie, Cameron Redpath, Alex Samuel and the uncapped Gregor Hiddleston.

Scotland launch their Six Nations campaign in Italy on February 7, with games against England and Wales to follow in quick succession.

Townsend has come under scrutiny after back-to-back fourth-placed finishes in the tournament and a poor autumn campaign, including agonising defeats against New Zealand and Argentina.

But he said he did not consider himself under extra pressure.

"I think I'm so privileged to be going into another Six Nations," he said.

"I can't wait to be working with the players again. When I see the team, I see the players in really good form. It excites me for what's coming up ahead."

J.Thompson--ThChM