EDINBURGH'S New Zealand forward Matt Mustchin could win a first Scotland cap in Argentina next month as coach Frank Hadden tries to solve a severe second row shortage.
The 31-year-old was born in Christchurch and played for New Zealand at under-19 level, but after securing just one game with the Crusaders he headed north in 2003, first to Ulster and then, two years later, to Edinburgh. The 6ft 4in lock-cum-flanker
has become one of the most popular and consistent performers in the capital and been credited with helping the young squad mature.
His three years in Edinburgh now qualifies him to play international rugby for Scotland under the IRB's residency rules and, with Jim Hamilton injured and Nathan Hines and Scott Murray involved in the French championship, he yesterday joined team-mate Simon Webster in being called up to the tour squad.
Webster underwent fitness tests on his hamstring injury and passed "with flying colours", according to Dr James Robson, the team medic, which alleviates some concern on the wing berths. With Nikki Walker and Rory Lamont ruled out, Hadden was keen for the 33-times capped Edinburgh player to make it and join Simon Danielli, and uncapped brothers Thom and Max Evans in the squad.
However, the second row remains a headache for Hadden, who had only Scott MacLeod in the position until yesterday. Nathan Hines confirmed that he, and the Argentine caps at Perpignan, will not be released for the tour as they face three games in ten days during May/June, and may need to win them all to secure a Top 14 semi-final spot.
Hadden is leaving the door open for Murray, Scotland's most-capped player, as he remains hopeful that were his side Montauban to win over the next two weekends and secure a top-seven finish and prized Heineken Cup place – but not qualify for the play-offs – he may be released.
There was no mention yesterday of Mark Rennie, the lock at Bourgoin, who may be available, but Alastair Kellock, the Glasgow Warriors captain, and Edinburgh lock Craig Hamilton are to join training at Murrayfield next week.
Hines, 31, admitted that it was a difficult time for exiles, stating: "The coach has said I won't be going to Argentina unfortunately, and it's tough – you really are torn between club and country.
"I'm passionate about playing for Scotland, as everyone knows, and I don't want to miss any Scotland game. And, being selfish, you always worry when you aren't available for a Scotland game because you're not assured of a spot; whoever comes in could play really well and you can't get back in – especially when you're my age.
"I am also an experienced player and you want to play your part in making sure we get a decent draw for the World Cup. But I'm also passionate about my club and I'm a senior player here. I want to help bring success to Perpignan.
"There are quite a few Argentine players at Toulouse, Clermont Auvergne and Stade Francais who won't be involved in the Tests either. I was confident we could beat them out there anyway, but the guys will have a good chance now."
