Scotland were hit by a serious double injury blow ahead of their final Six Nations game

Scottish duo Stuart Hogg and Finn Russell have pulled out of the squad ahead of Saturday’s final Guinness Six Nations game against Italy.

The influential pair left the pitch with ankle and knee injuries in the closing stages of Sunday’s defeat by Ireland and are returning to their clubs for treatment.

Edinburgh fly-half Charlie Savala has been called up to the squad, while Josh Bayliss has returned to the group after being sacked for Bath at the weekend.

It remains to be seen if Richie Gray will be fit for this weekend’s match at BT Murrayfield. The 33-year-old was pushed off after just six minutes on Sunday with a suspected rib injury. He has remained in the squad for the time being and hopes he could be available for Italy.

A Scottish Rugby statement on Monday said: “Stuart Hogg has picked up an ankle injury and will be unavailable for this weekend’s game against Italy. He will return to his club in due course to continue to deal with this injury.

“Finn Russell has sustained a ligament injury in his knee. He will return to Racing 92 to continue his rehabilitation.

“Richie Gray sustained an injury during the Ireland game and will remain with the squad to continue to be monitored by medical professionals.”