Australian Scott Johnson has been appointed Scotland head coach on a temporary basis for the Six Nations and next year’s tour of South Africa, Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) announced yesterday.

Johnson had been working as an assistant coach to Andy Robinson, who resigned last month in the wake of a 21-15 loss to Tonga after three-and-a-half years in charge.

“Scott has a wealth of experience of international rugby, which was instrumental in his appointment ,” said SRU chief executive Mark Dodson. “He has coached with Australia, Wales and the USA and knows what it is to prepare teams to win on the international battleground.

“Scott knows our players and coaches well and is determined to hit the ground running with a successful Six Nations Championship.”

Dodson also confirmed that the SRU will continue to seek a long-term successor to Robinson.

Johnson described the appointment as “an honour” and pledged to do his best to get the most of the players.

The loss to Tonga on November 25 was Scotland’s 10th defeat in their last 13 Tests and saw them slump to 12th in the International Rugby Board (IRB) global ranking.

Johnson, who was once caretaker coach of Wales, was appointed as an assistant coach as part of an overhaul that followed Scotland’s dismal performance at this year’s Six Nations.

Scotland open their Six Nations campaign against England at Twickenham on February 2.