The fast-tracking of Hugh Blake into the Scotland Six Nations squad made waves throughout rugby last week, but the New Zealander may turn out to be something of a stalking horse as Scottish rugby officials are still tracking the progress of John Hardie, another Highlanders flanker and a player with substantially more experience at the higher levels of the game.
Hardie is believed to be out of contract at the end of the Super Rugby season and could therefore be available to Scotland - he earns eligibility through one of his grandparents - before the end of June, three months before the Rugby World Cup gets under way. It was reported 18 months ago that tentative discussions about a move to Scotland had taken place, and it is understood that is still on the cards.
Hardie, 26, who has played at Super Rugby level for the Highlanders has a considerably better cv than Blake, who was cut from the South Island franchise's wider training squad last year.
Despite that background, Scotland coach Vern Cotter has defended his decision to bring Blake into his 32-man training squad before he has played a professional game for Edinburgh, where he is currently on trial.
"Let's be clear, he hasn't played yet," said the coach. "He's involved in the squad, but he hasn't played. We will be making sure that he demonstrates everything he needs to be. He would love to play, but for the moment he's there so we can have a look at him.
"We've seen some very positive things, but he hasn't been selected to play a Test match for Scotland. He offers something that the other players don't have in the No 7 jersey.
"I genuinely think he will offer something we don't have here. If it's the best thing for the team, then that's a good decision. The idea is to have a good look at these people now and if we feel they are the right for the job then they will get a game.
"We've got an idea of how we want to play. And the type of player who will help us play this kind of game and make us competitive. Speed and turnovers are important so that's why we are exploring. It would be better finding out now than later on."
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