McCusker thought that his Wales call-up was a mistake

New Wales flanker Rob McCusker has signed a two-year extension to his contract at the Scarlets.

The ex-Mold youth man, 23, is in Wales' 32-man squad for the tour of North America with fellow Scarlet youngsters Jon Davies and Josh Turnbull.

"I'm very pleased for the Scarlets in the new Wales squad, particularly for the first-timers Josh, Rob and Jon," said Scarlets coach Nigel Davies.

"This season we've talked a lot about the development of younger players."

The Scarlets' five Wales men - the experienced Mark Jones and Dafydd Jones also make the trip - could yet face disappointment, though.

At first I thought it could be a mistake, an error in the story Rob McCusker on his Wales call-up

Either they or the four Dragons in the squad will miss out on the tour as one of those regions faces a Heineken Cup qualification play-off game in Italy on 29 May, the eve of Wales' opening tour clash against Canada.

"It's between us and the Dragons and one group of players looks set to stay behind," McCusker told the north Wales Daily Post.

"It is definitely an added incentive for everyone involved.

"We always want to make sure we qualify automatically for the Heineken Cup because of the great European traditions here at the club, but also now I'm sure no-one will want to miss out on the tour by having to go into a play-off.

"[The Wales call-up] was a massive surprise. I went on the internet to do some analysis work on the Blues for Wednesday's game, and just thought I'd have a look to see who was selected.

"When I saw my name I didn't really know what to do.

"At first I thought it could be a mistake, an error in the story.

"I was absolutely shocked, I didn't know what do to do. It still hasn't sunk in now."

606: DEBATE How far can McCusker go in the game?

Regional coach Davies says the unexpected call was well earned.

"Rob has been around our set-up for a few years and this season has shown new maturity," he said.

"He has developed a genuine edge to his game, has contributed well to the group and now understands the game really well. He's somebody with a very bright future."

Davies has named McCusker and Jon Davies in his side to face the Blues in the Magners League on Wednesday, a game that could seal the Scarlets' Heineken qualification.

"We go to Cardiff with a strategy and with a strong, competitive 22," said Nigel Davies.

"We should show a real hunger and desire because we've got everything to play for."

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