GREGOR Townsend claimed that fellow Borderer Stuart Hogg “one of the best players in the history of Scottish rugby” ahead of the full-back’s 100th cap against Ireland on Sunday.

The 30-year-old has established himself as a mainstay in the dark blue jersey since making his international debut against Wales in 2012.

Speaking of Hogg’s accomplishment, Townsend said: “It’s very well deserved, he’s been one of our best players over the last 10 years but also in the history of Scottish rugby.

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“We put a tribute video on for him the other day when we announced the team with some of the tries he’s scored, some of the victories he’s been involved in.

“The creative nature of his game, his durability, his love of the jersey, his love of playing the game has been constant throughout that period.

“Right from 19-20 years old when I first started working with him at Scotland, and then at Glasgow, it blew me away to see his passing with either hand, his kicking ability, his speed. He’s been one of the best rugby players I’ve had the pleasure to work with.

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“It’s a great game to win your 100th cap, back at home, with a trophy at stake.

“He’ll lead the team out and I’m sure the crowd will want to show their love for him and their appreciation of what he’s done in that jersey.”

Townsend detects that Hogg is eager to make a big impact on his landmark outing.

“This week he’s trained the best he has this season, so he’s responded really well to being named in the team, to having the players behind him and congratulating him on his 100th cap,” said the coach.

“He’s looking in great physical shape. I know he was wanting to play last weekend for Exeter but I messaged him to say ‘look, just take it as a positive that not playing will mean you’re going to be really fresh for what will be a big week for you’.”