Scotland v New Zealand
Mustchin focuses on Scotland
NZPA
October 30, 2008
Matt Mustchin of Edinburgh Gunners tries to break through the London Wasps defence during the Heineken Cup Pool 6 match between London Wasps and Edinburgh Gunners at Causeway Stadium on January 21, 2006 in High Wycombe, England
Edinburgh's Matt Mustchin is concentrating on performing for his adopted country as he prepares to take on the All Blacks © Getty Images
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Teams: Scotland

Former Canterbury rugby forward Matt Mustchin has put his feelings for New Zealand to one side as he trains with Scotland in preparation for the All Blacks in just over a week.

"Anything I feel for New Zealand has been put to the back of my mind because I'm doing everything I can for Scotland now, to get our first win over New Zealand," he told The Scotsman newspaper in Edinburgh.

Mustchin, 31, qualified for Scotland through residency in June this year, starting in both tests on their tour to Argentina.

Mustchin represented New Zealand at under-16 and under-19 level, played for Canterbury and the Crusaders in the old Super 12, but moved to Ulster in 2003 and then, in 2005, joined Edinburgh .

At Scotland's training base this week, he admitted excitement at the prospect of facing the All Blacks and in particular, captain, Richie McCaw.

"The opportunity to play against New Zealand is a massive carrot," he said.

"Most people know I'm good friends with Richie from when we played together at Canterbury and the Crusaders.

"When the squad was announced I texted him and he texted back saying `well done: now just get into the starting line-up'.

"It will be strange if I get in the 22 to face him and the All Blacks -- the anthems, facing the haka and playing against them.

"Beating the All Blacks is definitely achievable, if we do everything we know we can do.

"For a game this big the preparation is the big thing - that has to be right to give every player a chance of performing."

© NZPA

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