Scotland centre Ben MacDougall is poised to return to rugby league when his Borders contract expires at the end of May.

With Borders being disbanded, Australia-born MacDougall has revealed his best contract offers have come from the 13-a-side code, with the NRL and engage Super League seasons both ongoing.

However MacDougall confirmed he would look to return to union if Scotland head coach Frank Hadden wants to take him to the IRB World Cup this autumn.

MacDougall won his two Scotland caps last year, and has been troubled by injuries since.

The former Melbourne Storm player told www.scottishrugby.org: ``Although I've had some interest within rugby the most attractive offers I'm getting are from rugby league clubs.

``It's been a really difficult decision but I fully understand that Frank Hadden cannot give me any guarantee of involvement in the World Cup and, just now, it's coming down to livelihood.

``I'm looking to take up a contract with rugby league until the end of the season but, ideally, I'd like to leave the door open to play again for Scotland.

``I've spent three years playing rugby union, a sport that I hadn't really played since I was at school in Australia and I feel I've got to the point where if I was to stay in union for another year then the best would be to come.''

MacDougall turns 30 on May 25 and spent two seasons with Borders, after launching his union career with Edinburgh.

Hadden did not rule out a World Cup call-up for MacDougall, whose exposure to regular rugby league would more than likely benefit his fitness.

Hadden said: ``I wish Ben well. Obviously his immediate plans mean he could not be considered for selection for the Churchill Cup but I'm pleased at Ben's desire to play union again and at his leaving the door open for a possible Scotland return.''