Ross Ford chosen as Scotland’s captain for Six Nations

Ross Ford has been chosen as Scotland’s captain for the forthcoming Six Nations championship.

The Edinburgh hooker has been named as skipper in the absence of Kelly Brown, who was originally asked to lead the team.

Surgery on a leg injury now looks set to rule Brown out for the next eight to 10 weeks, leading to Andy Robinson appointing Ford.

“This is a special day for Ross, who has been a key figure in our leadership group and our most consistent performer for some time,” Robinson said.

“I firmly believe he is the man who will step up and lead from the front. That said, I’m really disappointed for Kelly Brown.

“I had asked him to be the captain late last week but unfortunately injury will deprive him of that honour and the chance to lead out his country for his 50th cap. I wish him a speedy recovery.”

Ford will become Scotland’s 112th ever captain when he leads the team out in their opening game with England on February 4.

“It’s a massive honour and privilege to captain your country. I’m really grateful to be given this chance to captain a team of so much potential,” Ford said.

“For me, the big thing is leading from the front and actually showing a good example to the boys as well as backing it up with words.

“First and foremost is ‘do it’, do it for everybody to see, and that’s the way I’ll be looking to lead the team against England.”