FORMER Swindon RFC youngster Calum Morrison is savouring his chance to take on the rest of the world in rugby league.

The 21-year-old Glasgow University scholar has been named in Scotland's 21-man squad for the Student World Cup in Australia this summer, barely two years after stumbling into the 13-a-side game almost by accident.

The ex-Wootton Bassett mini, whose parents live near Freshbrook, will try to help his country negotiate a tough group based in Brisbane, which includes the host nation, cup holders New Zealand and Wales.

And it will continue a rapid rise through the levels of league for the accomplished union No 8, who has played for the likes of Glasgow Hawks and West of Scotland, as well as representing Dorset & Wilts and his home town Swindon in the 15-a-side game.

Morrison, studying physiology and sports science in Glasgow, explained: ''One of the guys I play with was playing a bit of rugby league in the summer conference they have in Scotland.

''I went along and had a couple of games and enjoyed it, so then I went along to a Scotland trial and got in.''

He immediately featured for the Scotland A team, making his debut against England in 2003 before playing against Holland, France and Serbia and taking part in the rugby league Home Nations tournament.

In the meantime, he has played at club level for the Glasgow Bulls before earning his World Cup call-up.

He added: ''There are eight teams in it and it will be five games in 16 days so it's pretty full-on.

''I would say we're hoping to finish about fifth. It will be tough with Australia and New Zealand, the holders, in our group but I think we can beat Wales.

''We played the Aussies last year and although they beat us 26-6, they are definitely beatable and as we have them first, maybe we can catch them on the hop.

''But I'm also looking really forward to facing the Haka when we play New Zealand. It's a dream for any rugby player.''

Despite his excellent progress in league though, he remains a union man at heart, having already achieved Scottish Exiles recognition and played in an invitation XV in the 2001 Students Home Union Championship.

The former Ridgeway pupil added: ''If I had to choose, I would definitely prefer to play at a higher level in union and take that as far as I can.''

In the meantime, Morrison is seeking further sponsorship for his World Cup adventure.

He added: ''Swindon RFC have already raised some cash for me and I'd just like to say thanks to everybody there for that.''

Any other potential sponsors can contact him via Glyn Barret at http://www.swindonrfc.co.uk