Mealamu is jealous of Scotland's access to Sean Fitzpatrick

New Zealand hooker Keven Mealamu admits he would love to benefit from the wisdom of legendary All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick has linked up with Scotland's Ross Ford as part of Gregor Townsend's Winning Mentors programme.

"It would be awesome. He is one of the true greats of New Zealand rugby and world rugby," Mealamu said.

"So he would be able to give him the benefit of quite a bit of experience. I am a bit jealous."

The project, run by former Scotland and Lions fly-half Townsend, is designed to help Scotland's young stars reach their full potential.

Ford is able to call on Fitzpatrick for anything from career advice to scrummaging tips.

Fitzpatrick was capped 92 times and Mealamu, who arrived in Edinburgh on Monday ahead of the All Blacks' clash with Scotland, would relish the opportunity to pick the brains of his country's most illustrious hooker.

Fitzy's best quality was his leadership. He led the All Blacks so well in that era New Zealand hooker Keven Mealamu

"Fitzy's best quality was his leadership. He led the All Blacks so well in that era," Mealamu said.

"As rugby changed, he was able to turn his body into a professional body and adapt to the professional game."

Scotland have also appointed former All Blacks captain Mike 'Bruiser' Brewer as one of Frank Hadden's two new assistant coaches.

"Scotland might have a bit of an insight into the way New Zealand play," Mealamu continued.

"They are very smart men. It must be very good to have some good men like that on board with the squad. We will have to watch out for that.

"When you play anybody at home, it's always hard because they are always so much more passionate at home. Scotland is the same."

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