Chris Harris can go from Scotland’s defensive rock to Bok basher for Lions

HAVING the chance to represent the Lions this summer would be “unbelievable”, says Gloucester's Scotland centre Chris Harris.

Harris has been one of the mainstays of the Scotland side and, following an excellent Six Nations – in which he starred defensively as Scotland won in Twickenham and Paris – he has put himself in the selection discussion.

“I've never been that long sighted, so whatever happens, we'll wait and see,” he said before conceding: “If I was selected, obviously it would be unbelievable.”

His cause will be further helped by the appointment of Gregor Townsend and Steve Tandy – men who have placed trust in Harris to lead Scotland's defensive efforts – as Warren Gatland's assistants, and Harris sung the praises of Scotland's defence coach.

“Steve is a brilliant coach and he fully deserves that selection.

Steve's been great for Scotland, he's been great for me and it's an exciting opportunity for him to go to South Africa.”

Carlisle-born Harris, 28- times capped since his debut in 2017, knows that Townsend and Tandy will put the case forward for players such as himself, Duhan van der Merwe, Jonny Gray and Rory Sutherland.

He added: “I have no doubt that they will fight the Scotland players' corners. Hopefully it will help that there are two Scottish coaches, but ultimately it's up to the boss.”

Louis Rees-Zammit is another player in contention for a Lions spot, and Harris is better placed than most to evaluate how the young Wales wing has developed his game.

“He's an exciting player. He's got ridiculous speed but he's really developed his game,” Harris said of his clubmate.

“When he first started playing for us, he was just a speedster and that was his x-factor but in the past 12 months you can see how much his game has developed and he's going to get better and better.”

Mentioning Harris' name in Lions circles marks a stark turnaround – his first Scotland start came in a 34-7 thrashing by Wales on the opening weekend of the 2018 Six Nations – and fans have often criticised the selections of the Cumbrian.

While he admits criticism used to affect him, it's something he's put to one side as he's established himself in the Test arena.

“Hopefully I have proved I am worthy to be playing but they are entitled to their opinions.”

For now Harris will be focussing on club business, including facing his former side Newcastle next weekend.

He added: “They're above us in the league but they haven't been in the best of form recently. I'm looking forward to getting stuck in.”

GAVIN HARPER