Richie Gray aims to make the most of second chance in Six Nations

The 33-year-old Glasgow lock has won 69 caps but has made just three appearances in the Six Nations during current head coach Gregor Townsend’s five-and-a-half-year reign.

His last involvement was at home to Wales two years ago but after forcing his way back into the squad and making a positive impression during the recent autumn Tests, he is in line to start Saturday’s Calcutta Cup match against England.

Asked if he feared occasions such as the Twickenham showdown were behind him, he said: ‘Yeah, probably. For two years, maybe more than that, I wasn’t really getting in.

‘With the strength and depth across the second row – it’s an area we’re really strong at – there were a few moments when you go … I might struggle to get back in here.

‘From that perspective, I’m very fortunate to be back here. I’m making the most of my time and enjoying it as much as I can as I’m very aware how quickly it can all pass by.’

The revitalised Gray feels he is producing some of the best rugby of his career under Glasgow head coach Franco Smith.

He explained: ‘Franco came in and he was all about his forwards playing rugby, instead of just being a line-out forward.

‘He wants all his guys, front five especially, to be able to carry ball as well. You’re seeing that across the board at Glasgow. We work hard on it and that comes out in games.’

Townsend’s men have claimed the Calcutta Cup in four of the past five years, and Gray was among the substitutes two years ago when Scotland won at Twickenham for the first time since 1983, with the stadium empty due to Covid rules.

Gray said: ‘We take belief from that. Now the challenge is to do it when there are 80,000 getting behind their team. I certainly believe we can.’

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