Glasgow Warriors fly-half Adam Hastings has paid tribute to his number one rival for the Scotland number 10 jersey Finn Russell as a ‘role model’.
Since Russell departed Glasgow for Paris to join Racing 92 in the Top 14, Hastings has thrived with the added responsibility of donning the Glasgow playmaker’s jersey.
With Russell having not been released by Racing for Saturday’s clash against Wales due to the fact that it falls outside of the international window, Hastings is now set to make his third Test start and hailed the influence that Russell has had on his career.
“Finn was a role model for me at Glasgow and still is now,” he told BBC Sport.
“He is a quality player and we get on really well. It is nice to have someone to chat to about things and a shoulder to lean on.
“I am learning loads. He probably doesn’t realise how much he is helping me. Even when I am just watching him, I am learning from him.”
Hastings has started five of Glasgow’s seven PRO14 fixtures and both their Champions Cup matches. Last season, he was restricted to just nine appearances in total after making the move from Bath.
“I have not played too much rugby so time in the seat obviously helps,” he noted.
“Last year when I was playing every so often and not getting consistent game time, you maybe come in and try too hard, or you might not try enough because you are scared of making mistakes and you are not going to get picked the week after.
“But [Glasgow head coach] Dave Rennie has backed me for a lot of the season and I am thankful for that. Confidence has played a massive part.”
Hastings’ two international appearances have come against Canada and USA, so he is preparing for what should be quite a step up against Wales.
“It was difficult because in international rugby the standards are a lot tougher and everyone either side of you seems to lift their game,” Hastings recalled of his initial transition into the Test arena.
“When the boys pull on an international jersey they are a different animal, and Wales are a prime example of that.
“They are a really good team, very physical, with some really good backs, and forwards as well. It will be a tough game and we will have to match them physically, first and foremost.”
Scotland have not won in Cardiff in nine visits since 2002 and their most recent trip was a 34-7 defeat in the opening game of this year’s Six Nations.
“I am a proud Scotsman and it is not nice to see your country lose, especially to Wales,” Hastings added. “I have got a lot of Welsh mates from when I went to school down south.
“We want to go down there and win – that is no secret. That will be the main priority.”