Rugby: Robinson's Autumn Test plans disrupted by muscle injury to Parks

Scotland stand off Dan Parks is today at the centre of an injury scare with the first of three Autumn rugby Tests, against New Zealand at Murrayfield, just over a month away.

A year ago the possible absence of Parks would scarcely have raised an eyebrow but such has been his recent international form, coupled with Phil Godman's long-term absence, that a foot problem must be regarded as a major concern for Scotland coach Andy Robinson.

It is understood that Parks has a torn muscle in his foot, which may have contributed to poor goal-kicking form for Cardiff last weekend against Edinburgh - in which he missed a series of kicks - and already he's been ruled out of not only this week's trip to Castres in the Heineken European Cup but a subsequent Magners League fixture.

Confirming Parks' injury, Cardiff coach Dai Young, said the 53 times capped star, signed from Glasgow over the summer, faces a scan.

"Dan's a little further away with a foot injury. He could be out for two weeks but he's walking about on it. We will know more with the results (of a scan) but we're not going to put any players at risk."

Parks' injury undoubtedly means stakes will be all the higher for Edinburgh stand off David Blair when he lines up against Northampton Saints at Murrayfield on Saturday.

Blair, though, can take heart from an impressive vote of confidence today from one of Scotland's leading rugby sages. Jim Telfer, former Scotland and Lions coach, says of his performance in the 18-17 defeat at Cardiff.

"David Blair had an excellent game, always appearing to control the pace of the game and keeping Edinburgh on the front foot.

"For pure stand off ability, he is the best in Scotland at the moment."