Scotland Rugby have appointed an interim head coach as Philip Doyle has left the role as he is unable to rejoin the team due to Covid-19 shielding rules.

Doyle’s contract runs out in December and so it has been agreed between him and Scotland Rugby that he will not return to the role to avoid disruption to the team.

This means the side’s assistant coach Bryan Easson will be taking the reigns.

Doyle said: "While it is very frustrating not to be able to continue as Scotland Head Coach due to the restrictions around Covid-19 I feel it is the right thing to do both for me and also to enable the team to face the coming vital set of matches with some continuity in their coaching.

"I have greatly enjoyed working with the team and feel we’re making good progress on and off the pitch as a group. I will miss being with the players and wish them well in the games ahead and will be watching with interest.”

Easson will now see the team through their remaining Six Nations fixtures, being played in October and December, and their upcoming Rugby World Cup qualifiers.

Easson added: “I have really enjoyed working with this group of players and know how committed they are to progressing as a team. Philip is a passionate coach and so it is unfortunate he can’t continue for the games we have ahead.

“As a group we are focussed on the qualification for the World Cup in 2021 and so it was an easy decision to make when I was offered the chance to take on the Head Coach responsibilities. 

"I am looking forward to coaching with his group of players and staff again in the weeks ahead and know we will pull together and work hard to reach our objectives.”