The howls of anguish that greeted Scotland’s sodden humbling by Italy are giving way, by degrees, to stirrings of mutiny. While it might seem perverse for Gregor Townsend, architect of five Calcutta Cup wins and one draw during his nine Six Nations campaigns as head coach,

ROME (AP) — Coach Gregor Townsend dismissed any notion of resigning after Scotland's latest Six Nations hopes were washed away in rainy Rome on Saturday and he insisted he's still the right man for the job.

Gregor Townsend accepts criticism is ‘part of the game’ ahead of pivotal Calcutta Cup clash - Townsend is under pressure after Scotland’s opening round defeat to Italy

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend hopes recalled players Blair Kinghorn and Duhan van der Merwe have an added motivation to impress in Saturday's Six Nations trip to Wales.

Yet the coming weekend will see the start of the Super Rugby Pacific season, replete with kick-dumbing law trials and tweaks to ‘inspire’ the players to run the ball more, because apparently that’s what we all want and need.

Blair was back playing on Sunday night for Toulouse so it’s good to get an outlet when you’ve not been selected,” said head coach Townsend after naming his squad to face Wales. “He played really well in that game and he’s recovered quickly after that evening game.

Scotland rugby Gregor Townsend on recalls for Blair Kinghorn & Duhan van der Merwe, 'motivated' Wales & Steve Tandy

Ex-England star believes Scotland have proved his point, particularly after Gregor Townsend's surprising comment.