Scotland coach Vern Cotter has defended his decision to select South Africans Josh Strauss and WP Nel for his 46-man World Cup training squad.

The Glasgow No 8 and Edinburgh prop will both become eligible for their adopted nation just before the World Cup starts.

Strauss played for the Lions from 2010 to 2012, captaining them to the 2011 Currie Cup title, while Nel spent three seasons at the Cheetahs before heading overseas.

'I am happy to see these two players pull on a jersey and play for Scotland because I think they want to and I think they deserve to,' said Cotter.

'Just look at Josh for Glasgow at the weekend. He was outstanding. WP Nel's children were born in Scotland. When you talk to these players they are very passionate about this being their country. This is where they live now.

'I think they will add value to the team. If it's going to make this team perform well, that's a good thing.'

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