FINN Russell is back to spearhead Scotland's bid to end Wales' Grand Slam hopes - with Ali Price replacing captain Greig Laidlaw as his half-back partner.

The Racing 92 playmaker was badly missed a fortnight ago when he sat out the Six Nations defeat to France in Paris having suffered a head knock on club duty.

Russell takes over from Pete Horne for the visit of Wales while Stuart McInally is skipper, with Laidlaw having to settle for a spot on the bench.

Edinburgh prop WP Nel and club-mate Darcy Graham also start as lock Jonny Gray and wing Tommy Seymour make their 50th Test appearances.

Head coach Gregor Townsend said: "Getting to 50 caps for your country is a milestone in a player's career and it underlines the consistency and quality both Tommy and Jonny have delivered for Scotland over the years."

"Tommy has started all his games and has an impressive try-scoring record, which is a fundamental element of the game for a winger.

"As well as his finishing ability, his excellent work rate off-the-ball and outstanding aerial skills have been the key reasons why he's reached a half century of appearances for Scotland.

"Jonny is an exceptional player who came through as a young man and, by becoming the second-youngest player to win 50 caps, shows just how well he's played in that relatively short time.

"He has a phenomenal work rate, is a very accurate tackler and takes real pride in helping the team prepare, as well as continually looking for ways to improve his own game."

Scotland are looking to bounce back after defeats to Ireland and Les Bleus.

Scotland: B Kinghorn (Edinburgh), T Seymour (Glasgow), N Grigg (Glasgow), P Horne (Glasgow), D Graham (Edinburgh), F Russell (Racing 92), A Price (Glasgow), A Dell (Edinburgh), McInally (Edinburgh, captain), W Nel (Edinburgh), G Gilchrist (Edinburgh), J Gray (Glasgow), M Bradbury (Edinburgh), J Ritchie (Edinburgh), J Strauss (Sale).

Replacements: F Brown (Glasgow), G Reid (London Irish), S Berghan (Edinburgh), B Toolis (Edinburgh), H Watson (Edinburgh), G Laidlaw (Clermont Auvergne), A Hastings (Glasgow), B McGuigan (Sale).