Robinson hopes the added rest will serve Scotland well ahead of the World Cup in New Zealand where they face a tough group with newly-crowned Six Nations champions England and Argentina.

Scotland had a disappointing Six Nations with just one win over Italy to show for their efforts.

And even though both Edinburgh and Glasgow are out of playoff contention in the Magners League, Robinson said their league position has had no influence on the decision.

“This is a decision that's not been taken lightly,” said Robinson who recently signed a new contract taking him through to the 2015 World Cup.

“It's a reflection on the season and the previous seasons they've had and it's done on an individual basis.

“Richie Gray has doubled his game time this year and he has performed at a higher level of match as well and performed outstandingly well.

“This is for his development for the World Cup, but also for future matches - it's looking ahead to two, three years time as well.

“It's not just solely around the World Cup.

“We would be looking at this decision even if they were competing for something; we would have had to have this discussion.”