Knights' Jack Stearman tracking route to 2013 World Cup

The 23-year-old prop’s Scotland debut was cut short by the injury but he is determined to battle his way back into Steve McCormack’s squad.

The Scots went on to secure an eye-catching 26-6 victory over Ireland and they will face another test in the second triangular tournament clash against France in Perpignan on Saturday.

Stearman, who is in plaster following the full dislocation, will sit out that game, but he is fully focused on playing a part for the Bravehearts in the build-up to the 2013 World Cup in England and Wales.

“The 2013 World Cup is the ultimate aim – I want more of this now,” he said.

“After the injury, I want to get back playing and get my confidence back, but I’ve enjoyed being with the Scotland camp.

“It was a great result against a pretty strong Irish side. The future is bright for Scotland and I would love to be a part of that.”

New Earswick All Blacks amateur star Stearman was honoured to be selected for a starting role against the Irish at Scotstoun. He qualifies for the Scots through his Glasgow-born mum.

“I usually come off the bench so to start was fantastic,” he said. “It shows I am held in high regard.

“It was nerve-wracking but I settled down pretty quickly and it was unfortunate that I got injured.

“I was playing really well before the injury. I was really pleased with my performance.

“I spoke to Steve McCormack afterwards and he said at half-time all the talk was of doing it for me in the second half. That was great to hear.”

Stearman was one of three Knights players involved with Scotland and Ireland, joining Jordan Rice in the Bravehearts’ squad to line-up against Irish half-back Sean Carmody.

Rice was forced to withdraw from the squad on the eve of the game due a family bereavement, while Carmody was a sub for the visitors.

Said Stearman: “I spoke to Sean before the game and he enjoyed the camp and it was good for three York players to be recognised on that stage.”