Gregor Townsend has confirmed Jack Dempsey remains firmly in Scotland's plans through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, despite the back-rower's impending move to Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo.
Dempsey, 33-times capped since switching allegiance from Australia in 2022, was included in the 36-man squad named on Tuesday for next month's Nations Championship matches against Argentina, South Africa and Fiji. His move to Japan raised questions about his test availability given the calendar conflicts that previously cost Richie Gray and George Turner Scotland selection during stints in Japan.
Townsend is unconcerned in the short term, noting that Japan's season doesn't begin until around December or January, leaving Dempsey free for both the upcoming summer tour and the autumn series. Asked directly whether Dempsey would be part of the World Cup set-up, Townsend was unequivocal: "Yes, 100 per cent."
The tour itself presents Scotland with arguably their most demanding summer schedule under Townsend — three Tests across three continents in three weeks against Argentina (currently ranked fifth in the world), world champions South Africa, and a Fiji side that beat Scotland last summer.
"It's a much tougher tour that we're undertaking this year than ever before, certainly in the time I've been a coach," Townsend said, adding that the logistical and competitive challenge would serve as meaningful World Cup preparation.
Toulouse back Blair Kinghorn and Edinburgh lock Grant Gilchrist have been rested, while Huw Jones, Jamie Ritchie and Turner are absent through injury. The squad includes two uncapped players — Gregor Hiddleston and Seb Stephen — with Sione Tuipulotu continuing as captain.