Former Carlisle Rugby Club duo Gary Graham and Chris Harris have both been named in Scotland’s 42-man World Cup training squad.

Graham and Harris, both of Newcastle Falcons, made today's cut with the competition set to begin in four months’ time.

Carlisle-born Harris qualifies for the Scots through his grandmother while Graham, son of former Scotland prop George, made his debut in February despite being selected in England’s Six Nations squad last year.

Rory Hutchinson, Grant Stewart and Blade Thomson all make the cut, while in contrast, veteran flanker John Barclay is fit enough to earn selection after a year out injured.

Head coach Gregor Townsend has left two spaces unfulfilled and will be keeping an eye on the end of the domestic campaigns, offering one more chance for players to impress.

After the announcement, Townsend said: "Today’s selection is a good indication of the depth and level of competition we have.

"We made a conscious decision to keep squad numbers low, which enables us to do more work with those most likely to be on the plane to Japan.

"We’re excited to work with this group of players who will now compete hard for a place in the final 31-man group going to the World Cup.

"There are of course a number of very good players who have missed out – players who have been unlucky with injuries this year or haven’t hit form at the right time – while others are unlucky to lose out on some very close decisions."

On Graham and Harris’ selection, Carlisle secretary David Morton said: "It’s a great advert for rugby in Carlisle, developing players who go on to make it to international level.

"I’ve seen them both come through at the club. It’s great credit to the coaches at Carlisle and I’m sure there will be more to follow."