Scots delighted by Robertson coup

The 25-year-old had been tipped for a late call-up by the Kangaroos after scoring a hat-trick of tries in Manly's 40-0 Grand Final triumph over Melbourne on Sunday.

"Mick made it very plain at the beginning of the year that he would be proud and privileged to play for Scotland and I've followed his progress all year," said coach Steve McCormack.

"He has been absolutely outstanding and he was superb on Sunday. You always worry if people are going to pick him up but he's committed to Scotland and I'm delighted we've got him on board."

The Scots had already lost one top-class winger in Mark Calderwood, who switched his allegiance back to England, and were relieved to discover that Robertson had not made the Australian squad.

Robertson is one of six Australia-based players in McCormack's final 24-strong squad.

Former Hull and Wigan prop forward Scott Logan, 32, is the only survivor from the last World Cup in 2000.

Logan, who played all three matches of the 2000 tournament, was with Sydney Roosters at the time but is now with Canberra, where the Scots play their opening match.

Robertson made his senior debut with the Raiders and the Canberra link is further strengthened by the inclusion of ex-Raiders hooker Brad Drew on the Scotland backroom staff.

The squad includes the three Henderson brothers, who were born in Torquay but qualify through their Glasgow-born father, and Paddy Coupar, who plays in Scotland's domestic league for Edinburgh Eagles.