Hadden backs Callam in Scottish debut

SCOTLAND head coach Frank Hadden insists he has no qualms about handing David Callam a full debut in the test against Australia.

The 23-year-old will replace Johnnie Beattie, who suffered ankle ligament damage in the win over the Pacific Islanders last weekend, at number eight for the visit of the Wallabies on Saturday.

But Hadden already knows enough about the Edinburgh player to recognise Callam is ready to fulfil his potential with his first start for the national team.

Another player who looks destined to make his Scotland debut from the bench against Australia is Rory Lawson, who is included as cover for the injured Chris Cusiter. The Border Reivers scrum-half has undergone surgery on a dislocated shoulder this week, leaving the Gloucester number nine a chance to make his Scotland debut as understudy to Mike Blair.

Hadden expects both Edinburgh flanker Alasdair Strokosch and Lawson to come off the bench at some point on Saturday.

Elsewhere in the team, Hadden has opted for Dan Parks ahead of Phil Godman at stand-off.