Rugby: Lamont wants three out of three

Never mind that in 27 previous meetings the Scots have never beaten first-up visitors to Murrayfield, New Zealand, who are followed on successive weekends by world champs South Africa and Samoa.

A bullish Lamont says: "To get the scalps of the three southern hemisphere teams would be great. Last year we were close to a winning all three but got pipped by Argentina. I'd love a triple win."

Llanelli's Lamont, an ever-present threequarter last season, reckons law changes calculated to free up possession play into Scottish hands.

"The way the rules have changed will help us massively. We have dynamic forwards and quick backs and like to play a similar style to New Zealand."

He also tells Rugby World magazine: "They (New Zealand) have been on fire this year but our form shows they'll have to take notice of us. We'll be coming at them, that's for sure.

"We've been building for the past year and the depth in some positions and competition for places has helped drive on the players. The squad has been much the same since the last World Cup and that time spent together is crucial."