Worcester Warriors centre Alex Grove admits being named in the Scotland squad for the Six Nations is ‘awesome’ as he looks to build on his stunning young international career.
Grove impressed in the autumn internationals with Fiji, Argentina and most memorably Australia at Murrayfield.
Scotland boss Andy Robinson has now named the 22-year-old Academy product in his 30-man squad for the opening two games of the Six Nations.
“To be involved with the autumn internationals was something I didn’t expect so soon,” said Grove. “To now get the chance as part of the Six Nations squad is awesome.
“For me this is the next step up, it is a competition I always wanted to play in and now I am closer to that aim.
“It’s a key part of the rugby calendar and I have watched the Six Nations for years. I never thought I would be playing in it.
“To get this chance is amazing and now I have to push for my place and prove I am worth a spot.
“We have a training camp now coming up and that is where I knuckle down. There is a lot of competition in the squad with people back fit and playing regularly, I have to prove I am worth a spot in the Six Nations and that is what I will be aiming to do.”
Grove is now set to feature against France at a packed out Murrayfield on Sunday, February 7 (kick-off 3pm).
The Solihull-born ace will then travel to the Millennium Stadium to tackle Wales on Saturday, February 13 (kick-off 2pm).
“I have never had that much joy against France at age group level so it’s about time I got my own back and got on the right side of the score line,” smiled Grove.
“When I played against Australia in the autumn the noise inside the Murayfield was deafening, particularly towards the end, so I can’t even begin to imagine what it will be like for the Six Nations opener.
“I’m sure I will get a bit of stick before the Wales game from the coaches and Welsh contingent at Warriors.
“But seriously, Mike Ruddock has been so supportive and so have people like Alun Carter and the other players. I’m sure, though, they will try and wind me up nearer the day.”