Uncapped Alexander Masibaka Called Up to Scotland Squad for Six Nations Opener

Scotland coach Gregor Townsend has added five players, including uncapped back-row forward Alexander Masibaka, to his injury-hit squad ahead of Saturday's Six Nations opener against Italy.

Scotland coach Gregor Townsend has added five players to his injury-hit squad ahead of Saturday's Six Nations opener against Italy at Murrayfield. One of the new additions is Australia-born back-row forward Alexander Masibaka, who replaces Josh Bayliss, who suffered a groin injury while playing for Bath against Sale on Sunday. Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan described Bayliss' injury as “serious.”

Masibaka, 23, has impressed in the French second tier with Soyaux-Angouleme, where he is on loan from Montpellier. He qualifies for Scotland through his Scottish-born mother. Masibaka's addition to the squad is a significant one, as he brings a new dynamic to the team.

In addition to Masibaka, two locks - Cameron Henderson of Leicester and Ewan Johnson of Oyonnax - have also been called up. Glasgow's uncapped Euan Ferrie, who can play lock or in the back row, and Glasgow full-back Ollie Smith have also joined the squad. These additions will help bolster the team's depth, which has been depleted by injuries.

Captain Sione Tuipulotu was ruled out of the Six Nations last week after suffering a chest injury. Scotland are also missing Scott Cummings and Dylan Richardson. In Tuipulotu's absence, Rory Darge and Finn Russell will serve as co-captains as Scotland seek to avenge last year's shock defeat by Italy in Rome. The team will be looking to start the Six Nations on a positive note, and the new additions to the squad will play a crucial role in achieving that goal.