Gordon and Chris - the only two Scots left in the tour squad - had high hopes of being in the Test match 22. But naming the pair on the bench for tomorrow's midweek match against Southland at Invercargill indicates they will not be involved on Saturday.
Sean believes Gordon and Chris will be inspired to raise their game. The Glasgow backs coach told The Scotsman: "It has always been on the cards that Clive would rely on the England players who have served him well in the past. But, believe me, both Scots are far too good to be out of the picture for long. I am certain they will respond with fire and passion and there is no way I would write them off for the rest of the series.
"None of the hookers has really put his hand up during the first few weeks of the tour in terms of proving he is better than any of the others. I am surprised Thompson has got the nod over Gordon. In fact, I would go as far as saying that Thompson's line-out throws are a liability."