Scotland celebrate their recent series victory over Argentina © PA Photos

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Players/Officials: Ian McLauchlan | Andy Robinson

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New Scottish Rugby Union president Ian McLauchlan has predicted a bright year ahead as he prepares to take on his new role.

The former Scotland captain and British & Irish Lions prop was elected unopposed by delegates representing 250 member and associate member clubs at today's AGM at Murrayfield.

Reflecting on Scotland's recent series win in Argentina, McLauchlan said, "I see the year ahead as being very, very positive. It's started off brilliantly with the two wins in Argentina and I think the boys last year at international level were very unlucky not to win at least four games so I am looking forward to a very positive year on the field.

"And, of course, we have to back that up with positivity off the field. Success on the field and the right men in the corridors of power will advance our standing in the world game. The team's successes in Argentina are an example of the advances made under Andy Robinson and I wish him and his squad continued success.

"I'm quite happy just now but once I get into the job there might be something that comes up. If something comes up, that will be dealt with, believe me."

The AGM saw chief executive Gordon McKie reflect on a season which saw Scotland rise to seventh in the world - equalling their highest-ever position since the rankings were established by the IRB - and which also saw Scottish Rugby exceed its target of 38,000 adult and youth players two years ahead of schedule.

He underlined ongoing financial stability in a tough economic climate with Scottish Rugby increasing turnover to £33.6million and achieving a surplus of around £0.6million. Average bank borrowings for the year were less than £15million for the second successive year.

McLauchlan added, "That is one of the great things - it's positive on the field and positive off the field. We all have to strive to make sure that continues."