Paterson sets sights on World Cup

Published on Thursday 4 December 2008 09:05

CHRIS PATERSON has set sights on going where no Scottish rugby player has previously been to take part in a fourth World Cup.

Among those who have appeared in three global tournaments are full-back predecessor Gavin Hastings (1987-95) but it would be taking durability to a new level if Edinburgh ace Paterson, 30, could reach New Zealand in 2011.

He says: "I'd love to be involved. I still feel fit and my test results actually prove that I'm in better condition than I've ever been. I'll just need to get out and prove I'm still around then."

By the time the 2011 tournament arrives, Paterson could have extended his Scottish cap record well beyond its present 90 mark though even he would be short of Aussie George Gregan's world best of 136.

"On the whole, it's a young squad," adds Paterson. "A lot of the experienced guys are young as well; Ally Hogg is up near 50 caps and he's just 25 years old.

"The older guys are myself, Nathan (Hines] and Jason (White]. But I'm always willing to improve and my desire is still there to play."

EDINBURGH-BORN Paul Burnell has been inducted into London Scottish's hall of fame. The Grand Slam prop forward gained 52 caps between 1989 and 2000.

ITALY'S top ten rugby clubs will meet next Wednesday at which an application to join the Celtic League could be on the table. This follows three defeats for Italy in the recent Autumn internationals amidst proposals for two centrally-funded teams competing alongside Edinburgh, etc, at domestic level.

"Everybody needs to give something up for the common good," says Italian Federation president Giancarlo Dondi.