British and Irish Lions: Stuart Hogg out to prove his worth in Australia

Stuart Hogg has said he’s out to prove his worth in the British and Irish Lions squad and is determined not to just be a tourist while Down Under.

The Scotland international is one of three full-backs selected by head coach Warren Gatland – with Leigh Halfpenny, who is the favourite to start the Tests.

With such competition, Hogg has his work cut out to be in the side for the first Test against Australia on June 22.

However the 20-year-old has the first chance to impress after being named in the starting XV for the opening tour game against the Barbarians in Hong Kong – and Hogg is determined to give Gatland a selection headache.

“I’ve got nothing to lose to be honest,” said Hogg.

“Everybody is expecting Leigh to be the starting (Test team) number 15, and I will push him all the way to get that starting spot.

“But at the end of the day it’s good for me to have guys like that you can learn off. Rob Kearney as well, learning how they play 15, adapting to how they play and hopefully learning a lot from them.”

Hogg earned his place on the tour after some superb displays during the RBS Six Nations – however he claims that he was “fortunate” to be called up.

“It is quite surreal when you are putting on Lions T-shirts, looking at the badge and you are thinking ‘I’m not here as a supporter, I’m here as a player’,” he added.

“I find myself very fortunate to be here as a player. I am enjoying it, and I am looking forward to learning a lot on the tour.

“It’s pretty surreal being here, but I’ve got myself here on good performances, and I am hoping to continue that form. It’s an exciting couple of months ahead.”