COUNTY rugby star Harvey Elms is “really pleased” to have been included in this season’s Scotland 7s squad.

Elms, from North Berwick, is one of three players named in the squad who will link up with the core players on a part-time basis.

The back, a former U20 and club internationalist, plays his club rugby with BT Premiership outfit Currie Cheftains and is delighted to have been given his chance.

He told Courier Sport: “It’s an exciting time to be involved after their performances last season, especially the way they played in London.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time so far during pre-season getting to know the boys and the coaching team.

“It’s a great environment to be in and I’m just focusing on learning as much as I can just now. I’m really pleased to be given this opportunity.”

The 23-year-old, equally at home at full-back, on the wing or at outside centre in the 15-a-side game, set himself an ambitious target for the season ahead.

He said: “My goal is to try and play in some World Series tournaments but there’s still quite a while until it all starts so all I can do now is keep working as hard as I can, both with the 7s and with Currie.”

For now, Elms is focused on helping his club side build on their good start to the season.

He said: “My focus just now as well is to perform for Currie in the Premiership.

“We’ve had a good start to the season but we have a tough run of games coming up now.

“I’m confident in the team we have so hopefully we can continue to improve and have a successful season.”

John Dalziel, the new head coach of the national 7s side, praised a “really driven and experienced group” of players.

The ex-Melrose and London Scottish coach added: “I’ve really enjoyed the first few months working with the players and staff.

“We have a great mix of experience and youthful exuberance, which is very healthy as we look at ways to evolve and improve as we move forward.”