Scott Murray has sympathised with his fellow Scotland internationals who were not chosen for the Lions tour of Australia.

Established stars such as Gregor Townsend, Budge Pountney and Martin and John Leslie missed out on selection for the 37-man squad.

But Saracens lock Murray believes that the inclusion of 21-year-old Simon Taylor will be ideal for the tour.

``I had a feeling that Simon Taylor might get a shout at number eight because I reckon he's the sort of player who will be fantastic at the back of a strong pack,'' said Murray.

``But I also thought that Gregor Townsend, Budge Pountney and both Martin and John Leslie would be in with a good chance.

``The fact that none of them have made the final selection only underlines just what an honour it is for me, Tom Smith and Simon to be able to represent Scotland within the party.

``Simon is a very big and tough character who I think will do very well in Australia.

``He's the same size as most second rows and has been playing excellently this season.

``Against England, he struggled because we were going backwards as a pack and the English guys picked on him a bit because they knew he was a youngster!

``But when he played for Scotland against Australia, he got through the whole of the match despite having a bone broken in his hand quite early in the game.

``It was all mangled up and he needed an operation on it afterwards. But he didn't quit in that game and that proves he's a tough customer.''

Murray concedes that he is facing an awesome task to be selected for the Test matches against the Wallabies.

``As captain, Martin Johnson will obviously take one second row spot, which leaves the other four of us selected locks fighting it out for one Test place!'' Murray told his personal website.

``I think that the second row is the toughest area of competition for places in the entire squad, and Danny Grewcock, Malcolm O'Kelly and Jeremy Davidson are all high-class international players too.

``It's going to be so tough, but what a challenge! I'll be just be going out there to do my very best, and we'll see what happens.''