Parks ready to put down his marker

The 29-year-old started the summer as Scotland's first-choice stand-off, but with national coach Frank Hadden now convinced that Chris Paterson has what it takes to run the game from that position, he is in danger of becoming a fringe player when the tournament kicks off next month.

But Parks, who showed commendable strength and plenty of bravery against Ireland, said: "It's always nice to do some good things when you come on. If you start on the bench then your role is to come on and make an impact, and I think I managed that against Ireland."

He added: "You want to start every game, but at the end of the day I'll be happy as long as I'm involved in some way.

"I was fortunate enough to be involved with the squad against Ireland - and we had a good win there - and I wouldn't complain too much if exactly the same happened again when we play South Africa this weekend - although I'd be lying if I denied that I am desperate to start that game."

Parks added that the hard work put in by those who started the game against Ireland had created the right environment for his impressive cameo appearance. However, he is sure that Scotland will have to be even more physical against the notoriously rugged Springboks.

"By the time I came on against Ireland the guys had really worn down the Irish defence and things were beginning to open up, and I was able to take advantage - but this week it is a completely different task again," he said.

"The real acid test is this week because we know how physical a side South Africa are.

"They are a very big, bruising side, they are an intimidating side, and like a lot of teams they like to attack down the number 10 channel - so the objective this week is to match up to them with the physical stuff.

"I'm sure we are capable of doing that because everybody has been doing their weights and working hard all summer, and everyone is showing the improvements. We are all in the best condition of our careers."