Murray seeking maiden win for Scotland

Euan Murray returns to the Scotland team today seeking to create history and delight the nation with a first victory over New Zealand.

The 30-year-old Northampton tight-head prop is set to take to the pitch this afternoon at Murrayfield as one of five changes from Scotland’s last outing five months ago, the 13-9 win over Argentina in Mar del Plata on June 19.

Murray was selected ahead of Moray Low due to his experience garnered from 32 caps and touring with the British and Irish Lions, and he is determined to justify the faith shown by head coach Andy Robinson.

Murray told Press Association Sport: “It’s a tremendous honour and privilege to represent the people of Scotland, but then to do it against a team that’s long been considered one of the best in the world, if not the best, is even greater.

“I haven’t been starting for the club, so to be starting for Scotland, I relish it.

“I’m looking forward to playing against the All Blacks.”

Scotland go into the match on the back of a four-match unbeaten run – a draw with England, victory in Ireland and a 2-0 Test series win in Argentina.

Confidence is high, despite the fact Scotland are entering their 28th meeting with the All Blacks with two draws and 25 losses in the 105-year history of the contest.

“We’ve got a good squad, we’ve trained hard as individuals and played well as individuals over the last few years,” said Murray.

“Things have been building since the last World Cup and since Andy came on board we’ve had some big wins.

“We’ve played a lot of internationals together as a squad and I think we’re coming together at the right time.

“To play against New Zealand and to make history, that would certainly change everything for the country and for us.

“As players our confidence would go through the roof and it would be great.”

Murray will line up in the front row alongside hooker Ross Ford.

Ford, too, is eagerly anticipating the showdown, but knows Scotland must be at their very best to succeed.

He told Press Association Sport: “We’re buoyed by the confidence brought by the undefeated run, but you have to move forward.

“This game is a big challenge for us and the squad as a whole do believe we can win this game if we perform to 100% and as near to perfection as we can.”