Cusiter in plot to overthrow Blair

'I want to be the number one scrum-half'

Scotland star Chris Cusiter has warned Mike Blair that he will be looking for a return to the starting line-up during the Test series in November.

The 23-year-old Border Reivers scrum-half has been forced to miss the two-Test tour of South Africa because of a shoulder injury suffered in the Six Nations championship.

Cusiter, who was hurt in the win over Italy in March, will be forced to watch the first Test against the Springboks on television on Saturday.

However, after being sidelined by Blair for much of the Six Nations, he is determined to reclaim his place for the games against Romania, Pacific Islanders and Australia in November.

"Mike has been playing well all season but I feel I've got a lot to offer and it's just a case of getting myself back fit and proving that," said Cusiter, who toured with the 2005 British & Irish Lions.

"It's good for Scottish rugby that there are so many guys around, but, as far as I'm concerned, I want to be the number one scrum-half.

"I shouldn't be too concerned about who else is there because I want it to be me and I feel I am good enough to be there.

"Right now, I'm just reduced to a spectator really, so I'll be watching the game on Saturday and hoping they do really well.

"It's been my ambition for years and years to play for Scotland.

"To not be selected would be very tough but to miss out because you are injured is more frustrating because there is no way you could be there, you've got no chance.

"I'm very envious of the guys who are out there."