Indeed, Townsend has tipped Fagerson to flourish and eventually star on the international scene with Scotland, having already impressed at age-grade level.
"Adam Ashe and Jonny Gray a year or two before Zander were not fazed about the next level and they really wanted to get there and take the game to the opposition, and this is a fantastic opportunity for him to taste that next level," Townsend told the Scotsman.
"So, yes, in that position he is the best I've seen at that age. Props do tend to mature late and come through and learn scrummaging but Zander is one of a few players who have come through with a real mental attitude of wanting to work hard and improve.
"In terms of what he gives around the pitch he is exceptional, a massive ball carrier, very aggressive and an effective defender who really hits rucks, and his strength and maturity at scrum time is coming through now."
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