Scotland have announced a change in line-up for the Para-sport lawn bowls competition at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games ©Commonwealth Games Scotland

Scotland have announced a change in line-up for the Para-sport lawn bowls competition at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Martin Hunter has been forced to withdraw from the squad which will travel to Australia due to "personal circumstances".

He has been replaced for April's Games by Garry Brown, the reigning indoor Scottish champion and twice a World Championship competitor.

Brown will play in the open B6/B7/B8 triples event, joining fellow Commonwealth Games new boy Mike Nicoll.

Michael Simpson, who was fourth at his home Glasgow 2014 Games, completes the trio.

The change in line-up was confirmed by Team Scotland, Bowls Scotland and Scottish Disability Sport.

Garry Brown has now been drafted into the Scottish bowls squad ©Commonwealth Games Scotland
Garry Brown has now been drafted into the Scottish bowls squad ©Commonwealth Games Scotland

Jon Doig, Team Scotland's Chef de Mission, said: "It is hugely disappointing to lose Martin Hunter with just over two months to the Games, and the thoughts of the team are with him as we know how hard he has worked and how significant the Commonwealth Games are in an athlete's career.

"We welcome Garry to Team Scotland, who was unlucky to miss out in the initial selection and whose experience will be an asset to the team. 

"I wish the squad all the best in their preparation for Gold Coast 2018."

In a further development, Eric McMillan has joined the Scottish set-up as Para-bowls assistant team manager and coach.

He will work at the Games, which begin in the Australian city on April 4 and run through until April 15.