Mike performed exceptionally well when he came on as a replacement against New Zealand.

I think Chris started twice in the November matches and Mike came on after 20 minutes in the New Zealand game and performed exceptionally well - he deserves the opportunity to start this time. At stand-off, the most pertinent factor is that Gordon has only trained twice with Scotland this season while Dan has been consistent throughout.

Phil [Godman] has done exceptionally well but Duncan has been champing at the bit to get a start,

The way Mike performed, the way he conducted himself, and the way we run our organization, we both felt it was something that we wanted, ... We're still putting together a team and not just individuals. Mike's ability to play with the guys that we have on our roster, along with his age and his development ... are what it's about.

When I got the part I panicked on how now I'm going to do a New Zealand accent in New Zealand.

As a proud and passionate Scot this is the ultimate honour and one that I am determined to enjoy,