JOHN Brain has praised Ben Hinshelwood's World Cup debut after an impressive showing against Japan.

Worcester Rugby Club's back was one of few players to come out of yesterday's match with any credit after Scotland struggled to impose themselves against the minnows of world rugby.

Scotland beat Japan 32-11 in their opening Pool B clash in Townsville but came under heavy media criticism after their forwards failed to punch their weight in the pack.

However, because of their defensive frailties, full back Hinshelwood was called into action more than once as the last man and put in a couple of crunching tackles to prevent real Scottish humiliation. And Worcester's director of rugby was delighted to see Hinshelwood star on the world stage.

"I thought Ben got them out of jail on two occasions," said Brain.

"Scotland were poor yesterday and Ben stopped two certain tries with some great tackles.

"It wasn't the backs' fault that Scotland struggled, it was the forwards who let their side down. I think Ben can be reasonably satisfied with his personal performance, however."

Meanwhile, Worcester's United side will take on Oxford University at Sixways tonight (7.15pm). Stars such as Chris Garrard are named in the side, while David Officer will make his first start since recovering from a hamstring injury picked up on the opening day of the season at Otley.

Hooker Chris Hall plays his first match since his suspension for a red card in that September game while Duncan Murray, Jon Hylton, Rhodri McAtee, Matt Evans, Neil Mason and Tom Warren all play.

Team: Hylton; Burchill, Officer, Murray, Garrard; Higgins, McAtee; Hansen, Hall, Warren, Bowley, Percival, Mason, M Evans, Hopley.