Williams - has a tough job. (Getty Images)

By Duncan Bech, PA Sport

Scottish rugby has fallen on hard times.

The retirement of legendary British Lions coach Ian McGeechan after the World Cup will undoubtedly have left a big hole in the national set-up.

But in truth, not even McGeechan could inspire the Scots in recent years - though through no fault of his own.

Their lack of talent, especially behind the scrum, has been acute and their off-field problems have done little to help the cause - Budge Pountney's international retirement on account of a lack of facilities being the most notable.

But Australian Matt Williams believes he can turn around Scottish fortunes.

Unveiled as McGeechan's successor in June last year, he took up the post with a strong pedigree following stints with New South Wales and Leinster.

He enjoyed remarkable success during a three-year spell at the Irish province, lifting them from 38th in Europe to third.

Williams made little impact as a player but his coaching expertise is certainly impressive, and his decision to take over the Scottish reins suggests he is not afraid of a challenge.

His contract will see him through until the 2007 World Cup and he is already planning for the future, declaring that within four years only those playing their rugby north of the border will be considered for Scotland selection.

A more pressing issue, however, is to find a replacement for former skipper Bryan Redpath, who also announced his international retirement after the World Cup.

Redpath was a crucial component of the national side and will be hard to replace.

Chris Paterson and Simon Taylor are players of genuine quality and Williams must unearth more of the same if he is to succeed.