Mitchell’s cross-code call

Murray Mitchell is targeting glory for Scotland in the Rugby League European Championships after securing his maiden national call-up.

The centre, who also plays rugby union, is included in the Scotland squad named on Tuesday for games against Ireland, Wales and France at the end of the month.

The tournament will act as a qualifier for the World Cup in England next year.

Mitchell plays rugby league for Strathmore Silverbacks during the summer and rugby union the remainder of the season for Aberdeen Grammar.

He has represented Scotland at under-19s and under-23 level before, including playing at the a nines tournament in this year’s Commonwealth Games.

There has been a focus on producing more home-based players for the Scotland squad rather than selecting those who ply their trade overseas, with Mitchell hoping the 35-man squad can come together for success later this month.

He said: “The first target for myself is to get in the Scotland camp and prove myself.

“A lot of the boys come from a rugby league background, which isn’t the case for myself.

“I want to show what I can do.

“I had a good summer and I want to build on the benefits of that.”

Mitchell added: “There’s no reason why we can’t win this tournament.

“It’s a quick turnaround. There are only three weeks between games and we have to build squad relationships as soon as possible.

“That’s what I thrive on.” Mitchell started playing rugby at the age of seven and played union for Strathmore before his work with EY took him to Aberdeen and the chance to further his rugby career.

He has managed to combine both codes with the minimum amount of fuss, playing centre for both Grammar and the Silverbacks.

He said: “There are different rules but the basics are still the same.

“I’ve just loved it since I first got involved in a team environment. It’s good on and off the field, both in sport and life.

“This is my second season with Grammar and I’m really enjoying it.

“With the rugby league season through the summer I feel like I’ve not had a break but Ali O’Connor (Grammar coach) has a league background, so he’s been really understanding.

“My work have been great at giving me time off too, without having to take holidays.”