Gillies finds himself in demand after Kiwi lessons

Finlay Gillies is relishing his role as Scottish rugby's trouble-shooting hooker with appearances under his belt for Edinburgh, Glasgow and Heriot's already in this fledgling season.

What's more, the 21-year-old has already spent the summer playing with Auckland University and savouring every moment of his Macphail Scholarship, awarded annually to top prospects.

"I had a brilliant opportunity over ten weeks in New Zealand and learned so much including about the emphasis they put on conditioning so as to play at as fast a pace as possible.

"Auckland University picked me for 12 games which meant playing in the company of outstanding players such as All Black prop John Afoa and Jamie Helleur, a powerful Samoan centre Scotland should watch out for this Autumn when the teams meet in Aberdeen.

"Glasgow then included me in pre-season games against Dundee High and Sale Sharks.

"After that came 40 minutes for Edinburgh against London Irish and I also got a run for Heriot's from off the bench in Saturday's win over Currie.

"It seems that if a hooker goes down injured then I am on stand-by to cover the position.

"Every opportunity is welcome and hopefully I can find a way of making a Magners League debut shortly especially after being a 24th man last weekend."

Gillies, a former Scotland age-group cap, says he has found new levels of fitness. "I was taken to places physically which I never thought I could achieve."

The impact provided by Gillies was a key factor in Heriot's maintaining their 100 per cent league record and while his objective is the professional scene there is a job to do at Goldenacre. "I was really impressed with the way Heriot's beat Currie and the back row were particularly outstanding.

"While it is disappointing not to be involved in the British and Irish Cup this season the upside is Heriot's are free to focus on Scottish Cup and League matters. I don't see why Heriot's shouldn't challenge on both fronts."