Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend insists the door is still open for lock Jonny Gray to return for the Six Nations.  

The former Glasgow man was a surprise omission from the Autumn Nations Series squad after opting, along with new club Bordeaux, to sit out the campaign after making a successful return following 18 months out with a serious knee injury.  

Townsend said at the time he was “angry” and “disappointed” by the 30-year-old's decision but insisted it was not the end of Gray’s international career.  

“When he and Bordeaux talked about him resting during November, they both [Bordeaux and Gray] said, this would mean that he'd be definitely available in the Six Nations,” Townsend explained after Sunday’s win over Australia.  

Townsend added: “He's obviously missed this opportunity to play for his country. He was in good form leading up to November," 

The Scotland coach then went on to talk up incumbent duo Grant Gilchrist and Scott Cummings, who were excellent against Australia, and the other second rows in his wider autumn squad.  

He added: “I thought both second rows were excellent on Sunday. Max [Williamson], who got the chance to play against South Africa, was very good. 

“We've had younger guys coming in like Alex [Samuel], Ewan Johnson and Alex Craig.  

“Let's hope we have as big a group as possible to pick from.”