Scotland 21-8 Italy, Six Nations, Murrayfield, March 19
Paterson hopes for World Cup chance
ESPNscrum Staff
March 21, 2011
Scotland fullback Chris Paterson chops down Luke McLean, Scotland v Italy, Six Nations, Murrayfield, Edinburgh, Scotland, March 19, 2011
Chris Paterson chops down Luke McLean at Murrayfield © Getty Images
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Fullback Chris Paterson is determined to play a part in Scotland's Rugby World Cup campaign after reclaiming his place in their starting line-up.

The 32-year-old was restored to the run-on side for their third Six Nations clash, against Ireland, following an injury to Hugo Southwell and retained the jersey for subsequent clashes with England and Italy.

"I had nothing to prove. I wanted to get back in and just confirm I still had something to offer and an impact to make," he said. "If I've done that then great. I'll continue to work hard on my game.

"A big hope and a big goal for me is to be involved in the World Cup come September. I need to work hard in training, finish the season well with Edinburgh and when pre-season comes along it will be competitive. You have to commit yourself fully and be prepared for a hard battle there.

"I'm enjoying my involvement at the moment, I'm enjoying being around and as long as I can commit myself entirely to it, I'll go for it. I'll give it everything I've got."

Scotland's record caps holder, Paterson highlighted his worth when he pulled off superb try-saving tackles against England's Ben Foden and Italy's Luke McLean, while his goal-kicking took the pressure off young stand-off Ruaridh Jackson.

"It's strange to have a similar circumstance twice in six days, but that's what I'm there to do, to make those tackles," he said. "I won't make them all because they're so last-ditch and it's such a stretch. There will be times when I don't make it, but I'm pleased with the last couple."

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