Scotland boss Townsend calls for players to rise to South Africa challenge

Scotland's fly-half Finn Russell has been acknowledged as one ot the best players in the world in the position and will be expected to orchestrate his team's attacks against South Africa in the rugby World Cup. AP - Scott Heppell

Scotland boss Grigor Townsend urged his players to embrace the occasion when they step out at the Vélodrome in Marseille on Sunday evening to take on reigning champions South Africa in their opening game at the rugby union World Cup.

“It’s the biggest opportunity you’ll get, a World Cup game playing the world champions," said the 50-year-old.