Grove set to win first full Scotland cap

Since bursting onto the scene at Sixways last season, the Warriors academy graduate has cemented his place in Mike Ruddock’s first XV and a series of eye-catching displays are now set to be rewarded with full international honours.

The 21-year-old centre admits he can think about nothing else but running out at the home of Scottish rugby for his country’s opening autumn international.

"I remember being in the meeting when Andy Robinson announced the side and everything he said after he told me I was playing was a blur," said Grove.

"I was in shock at the team sheet and it's just absolutely amazing. I simply cannot wait and I'm so excited about playing at Murrayfield - it is all I can think about at the moment.

"I imagine my dad will hire a few coaches," joked Grove. "I am still pinching myself and a lot of people I know will travel up to game, I just want it to be a successful day.

"It's a massive day for me and I'm lost for words, it hasn't really sunk in and I'm not sure it will do until I am out in the middle of the field and waiting for the whistle."

Delighted Director of rugby Ruddock added: “It’s absolutely great news to hear that Alex has been selected for his first international cap for Scotland.

“This really is fantastic for him personally and for his family, who I know are over the moon to see their son get international honours.

“For us as a club, it really is tremendous. Alex came to us as an academy player and has been developed at Sixways under the careful guidance of Andrew Stanley, Gary Meechan and the conditioning and medical staff in the academy.

“He has been promoted into the first team squad, as have a number of academy players over the years, and now he has gone on to not only nail down a first team squad but also be picked by Scotland ‘A’ and now win full honours.

“It has been a dream 12 months for him – it’s real Roy of the Rovers stuff – and he really is a young man with a big, big future in front of him.”