Grimes ready and willing for Scotland

Scotland lock Stuart Grimes insists that the emergence of Scott McLeod in the second row is proof of a bright future for the national team, but the veteran Grimes is now determined to dislodge the youngster from the starting line-up.

Stuart Grimes: Ready and willing

Grimes was forced to watch Scotland's Test against Australia from the comfort of his home after his club side, Newcastle Falcons, refused to release him for the Test.

And, despite the obvious disappointment at missing out on the game against the Wallabies at Murrayfield, Grimes was encouraged by the performance of debutant MacLeod.

Grimes is now available for selection for Saturday's match against Japan at McDiarmid Park and, if called upon, is keen to reassert his authority in the forward line.

"I watched it on television on Saturday at home, it's great to see Scott doing well and big Al (Ally Kellock) getting on," said Grimes.

"They have been playing well all season, Scott in particular. It's good for Scottish rugby that they are playing well, although it means there is more competition for me to get into the team.

"When you are not involved and there are young players coming in and doing well it's a worry, but in terms of the effect on the team, I think it has been a positive one."

Grimes featured for his club side on Friday night in their defeat to Sale Sharks, a game in which he came up against international colleague Jason White.

The experienced lock hopes the pain of missing out on a Test match because of club duty can be avoided in the future.

"It was very frustrating but there was nothing I could do really, it was down to other people and I just have to accept that," said Grimes.

"I would like to think I did my bit, I was up here [Scotland] Monday, Tuesday last week and got behind and helped the lads in training.

"You always want to be there - watching it on television was very strange but there was nothing I could do about it and I realised that a while ago.

"You just have to get on with it really and I'm looking forward to this week.