Injuries to the duo have presented the Gloucester man the opportunity lead out his country again against the Pacific Islanders at Aberdeen’s Pittodrie Stadium.

After defeating world champions South Africa in his first match as captain last week, Lawson outlined the importance of backing that triumph up with another victory.

“The most important thing is to be a winning captain,” said Lawson, who collects his 22nd cap.

“It was a huge honour for me last week but in many ways this week is no different.
“For me, it is about taking the opportunities when they come up.

“There has been frustration at times in the last few years, but I have been competing against two outstanding scrum halves.

“But I can only be in control of what I am able to do.

“I’d like to think I bring a lot of energy to the team. I can say what I like but ultimately it is up to everyone individually to be switched on for battle.

“I have always been vocal and tactically I understand what Scotland coach Andy Robinson wants from the team.

“In the past, Samoa have brought their physicality on an individual basis but they are a different beast now because they work well together.”