I’ll never take my caps for Granted
Gilchrist out to crush Canada and end jinx
GRANT GILCHRIST wants to inspire Scotland to become Canada crushers – and wipe away the memory of his years of injury agony.
The big Edinburgh lock leads his side into battle in Edmonton tonight after clubmate Stuart McInally was ruled out.
And in addition to completing his personal mission he is determined to smash Scotland’s away-day hoodoo,
Gilchrist said: “I have been to hell and back with a series of bad injuries over the past few years.
“The experience has made me appreciate a lot more what I have.
“It makes you stronger, a better player, a better leader – and a better person. Being sidelined so often enables you to appreciate the bigger picture.
“Everybody hates being injured but your strength makes you bounce back. I am in a better place now – a better place than I have ever been in.”
Before his spate of problems, Gilchrist enjoyed a brief stint as Scotland captain.
And while delighted to be given back the armband he has deep sympathy for McInally for whom tonight would have been his first Test in charge.
Gilko said: “It has not been the best of circumstances. Stuart is a good friend and you never want to see your mates suffering.
“But it is a huge honour for me, just as much as it was four years ago. I’m buzzing for the game.”
Gilchrist insisted being skipper will not be a one-man task.
He said: “There is a leadership group in the squad and it is important they work as a team within a team. I have Fraser Brown as vice-captain and in the backline is Ruaridh Jackson.
“There are also some old heads on young shoulders – guys such as Magnus Bradbury, who has captained Edinburgh. Jamie Ritchie could end up leading Edinburgh and Scotland – these boys have a big presence.
“We need to be more consistent away from home – that’s one of the main goals of this tour.
Canada coach Kingsley Jones insisted his side are underdogs.
He said: “They’re a top side and we’re expecting a fast game.”