Scotland: Tyrone Holmes positive ahead of South Africa match

Image source, SNS

Image caption, Tyrone Holmes has enjoyed a memorable season with Glasgow Warriors, who reached the Pro12 final for the first time

Tyrone Holmes hopes to use his inside knowledge to help Scotland to a famous win over South Africa on Saturday.

The 28-year-old, who was born in Johannesburg and played in South Africa, has been called into the squad for the Scots' final tour match against the Springboks in Port Elizabeth.

"It's a positive that I've played against most of these guys in the Currie Cup," said the Glasgow forward.

"Facing them won't be anything new for me, so I'm happy about that."

Holmes qualifies for Scotland through his Peebles-born father, and revealed his delight at receiving his first call-up.

He is also determined to help keep the momentum going in the last match of Scotland's summer tour, following wins over USA, Canada and Argentina in the previous three games.

"Myself, my dad and my mum are very proud at the moment," added Holmes.

"It's obviously been a dream of mine since I decided to play professional rugby that international rugby is as good as it gets.

"I'm using this as a really big learning opportunity. There's a great vibe in the camp, it's been a really positive tour with three wins from three matches and we are looking to go out and use Saturday as another learning opportunity. We'll leave it all out on the park."

And when asked if he has an eye on establishing himself in Vern Cotter's side ahead of next year's World Cup, Holmes replied: "I want to go back to Glasgow, give it my all there, keep learning from the coaching staff and if everything goes well, fingers crossed I can achieve that [making the World Cup squad]."