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Townsend on leader Tuipulotu, Gray absence & 'great character' Muncaster

Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has been speaking to the media after naming his 45-man squad for the Autumn Tests.

Here are the key lines:

  • Sione Tuipulotu "thrives" on being a leader and captain and it helps him play better. He can take some of the burden away from Finn Russell by leading the side.

  • Jonny Gray's absence is "disappointing" because the second row and club Bordeaux have chosen for him not to be involved after returning from a long-term injury at the start of the season.

  • Ben Muncaster is a "great character" who brings "positive energy" but his form has got him into the squad. The Edinburgh player adds "speed" from the back row which is a "point of difference".

  • "Exciting" series which includes a Scotland ‘A’ game against Chile and a Test with Portugal which means more players will see game-time for Scotland