Wales props Scott Andrews and Ryan Bevington are relishing the chance to take to the field this weekend for their first taste of RBS 6 Nations action.
The duo were named on the bench for Wales’ penultimate clash at Murrayfield on Saturday and, whilst they have amassed five and eight caps respectively since making their debut in the same match against the Barbarians back in 2011, neither have featured in the Six Nations.
Blues prop Andrews played in three of Wales’ four Autumn Internationals and he is looking forward to taking part in one of the world’s greatest tournaments.
“The Six Nations is a very special tournament that is well respected around the world,” he said.
“The level of rugby is right up there, the games are packed out and the players and supporters enjoy the whole competition.
“Murrayfield will be sold out on Saturday with a big passionate crowd and I’m looking forward to it.
“Of course I’ve been disappointed not to be included until now but it’s a long campaign and I knew I had to carry on working to get my chance.
“I’ve been working hard, have gone back to the Blues to play some games and hopefully that’s helped my case.”
Bevington echoed Andrews’ comments and is hoping to play his part on Saturday.
“I’m really looking forward to it, it’s a tournament everyone wants to be part of,” he said.
“The Six Nations is a huge stage and it’s a great opportunity to be part of a match day squad.
“As a player you always want to play on the biggest stage. We’ve all been working hard in camp and I’ve been getting my head down in training and speaking to the coaches about what is required.
“When you get your opportunity you have to try and take it.”
Both sides go into Saturday’s match on the back of two successive victories and Andrews knows it’s going to be a big battle in Edinburgh, especially up front.
“Scotland’s scrum was impressive against Ireland and that went a long way to giving them the result.
“It’s a big game, the stakes are high but we are looking forward to it.
“We scrummaged well against Italy but we know it will be a heated battle up front.”