INTERNATIONAL TEST - WALES v SOUTH AFRICA
Venue: Millennium Stadium Date: Saturday, 5 June Kick-off: 1430 BST
Coverage: Exclusively live on BBC TWO Wales & online, full commentary on BBC Radio Wales and BBC Radio Cymru & online, score updates on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sport website

Back-row Rob McCusker is reaping the rewards of a fine season

Rob McCusker will cap a memorable season if he comes off the bench for his first Test appearance when Wales face South Africa on Saturday.

The Scarlets back-row, 24, was named by Wales coach Warren Gatland on a 50-man list of 2011 World Cup potentials.

But an injury to Andy Powell catapulted McCusker into the Wales Test team.

"It hasn't hit home totally... I have moments where the magnitude of it hits me and I have a bout of nerves for a minute or so," McCusker said.

"But then it goes back to normal and on the day it's going to really hit home."

Powell suffered a torn thigh muscle during training this week and Gatland showed faith in McCusker by naming him to replace the stricken Cardiff Blues player on the Wales bench.

McCusker is no stranger to the Millennium Stadium - but only as someone who has sat in the stands and admits he will be on unfamiliar ground on Saturday.

"I've been there numerous times as a fan and the atmosphere is immense," McCusker said.

"I don't know whether I'll be able to hear all the noise, I may just be in my own little space. But I think it's going to be a marvellous occasion whatever happens.

"I had a slow start to the season - played for Llanelli for 11 games I think - and then in with the Scarlets then for the rest.

"But I never expected this call-up at the end, I'd actually booked to go to Florida at the same time as the tour so I'll miss out on my holiday now - but I don't mind!"

All international debuts are memorable for the player involved, but McCusker admits that potentially starting an international career against the reigning world champions is something extra special.

Should the Scarlet be given the chance to impress off the bench, his next caps could be won on Wales' two-Test tour to New Zealand later this month.

"In at the deep end! It's great, there's no better games to play than these," McCusker said.

"It's ideal to make your debut at home against South Africa, then New Zealand away in their back garden is the pinnacle I'd say."

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