Sawt Falasteen - Townsend expects recalled Scotland duo to shine in Six Nations clash with Wales

The British and Irish Lions duo were high-profile absentees from the 23 for Scotland's opening two matches of the tournament against Italy and England amid doubts over their form.

But following last week's impressive 31-20 win over England at Murrayfield, where Scotland recovered from a dispiriting loss to Italy, former Dark Blues playmaker Townsend has recalled Kinghorn at full-back in place of the benched Tom Jordan.

Meanwhile, Van der Merwe, Scotland's record try-scorer, is back on the wing following an injury to Jamie Dobie

"Blair was back playing on Sunday night for Toulouse so it's good to get an outlet when you've not been selected," said Scotland coach Townsend after naming his side on Thursday.

"He played really well in that game and he's recovered quickly after that evening game. Duhan's trained really well and very much been part of our squad, so there'll be a freshness around both of them coming back in and huge determination to play well.

"Like any player, you want to be part of the squad and for those players that have been in our squad for a few years, it'll be tough for them to take," added Townsend, who has also reshuffled his pack following injuries to back-rows Jamie Ritchie and Jack Dempsey.

Scotland will be heavy favourites to beat a Wales side on a run of 13 successive Six Nations defeats after being thrashed by both England and France in the opening two rounds.

But a wary Townsend said: "I'm sure last week a lot of people thought England were clear favourites (against Scotland), so the game is not about predictions and previous form."

Wales boss Steve Tandy spent more than five years as Scotland's defence coach under Townsend before leaving to take charge of his native Wales ahead of the November internationals.

"We think very fondly of Steve," said Townsend. "He spent a long time with us, so he's been a big influence on our players.

"He was a massive help to me as a coach, and I'm sure after the game, whatever the result, we can have a few beers in the changing room."

Tandy, meanwhile, said of Townsend: "He was brilliant for me, taught me lots about international rugby, encouraged me to be better as well and helped my growth and development.

"He pushed me to be out of my comfort zone and I feel your best growth comes when you get uncomfortable.

"I'm really grateful for that time in Scotland - the people, the fans, everything was outstanding -- but it's the same here and it's my home nation. So it has the potential to be even better."

J.Saleh--SF-PST