Cusiter picked up a 'shiner' in training

"I'm pleased to get the opportunity," said Cusiter on being handed his first start of the Six Nations.

"First and foremost you want to win the game but apart from that I want to show what I can bring to the party.

"Mike and I are slightly different, but I think we both fit into the game plan because there are areas where you have to do your basics correctly."

Cusiter travelled with the British and Irish Lions last year but has had to look on as Blair has started Scotland's four previous games in the tournament.

"History has shown that no scrum-half has ever really had an unbroken stint in the number nine shirt. Other countries have had the same problem as well.

"George Gregan has had a massive run of games for Australia but I don't think that's the case here in Scotland.

"It's probably good that Mike and I are pushing each other on. It's not good for the guy who has to miss out but it's the nature of the competition.

"You've obviously got to try and push your own game on in terms of the World Cup and show you are the right man for the job.

"And it would be great if you could get yourself onto another level but I think Mike and I are pretty competitive just now and that could well be the way it is for the next wee while."

Italy drew in Wales last weekend and Cusiter is expecting a tough final game in Rome.

"We've got to defend as well as we have been doing but we'd like to do more with the ball," said the Border Reivers star.

"It's a case of keeping it longer and creating better possession for the backs to use and score some tries because that's what the crowd want to see.

"There's a chance for us to do that this weekend but it's going to be tough.

"Italy have drawn with Wales and run all the other sides close so you can't expect to beat them easily, we've got to be at the top of our game."