ANDY Keast is backing big Ben to sound out a promotion chime at Worcester Rugby Club.

The Sixways assistant coach played a big part in Ben Hinshelwood's call-up to Scotland's squad for their recent North American tour after personally recommending him to Ian McGeechan.

And the former British Lions coach now believes the centre will go from strength to strength as Worcester count down to their all-important National One campaign.

"I want him to bring back his international experience to Worcester," said Keast. "I think when you play at a higher level, you feel the intensity and your concentration improves. I am hoping he will bring that extra intensity to Worcester and continue his development.

"Ben was certainly one of our best players last season and with the Scotland experience, we are hoping he will continue to improve. That can only help us in our campaign."

Because of the tour, Hinshelwood has had little time off over the past couple of months but Keast and director of rugby John Brain intend to monitor any signs of burnout with Worcester's star man.

"We don't feel it's a problem but we will make sure all the players are looked after," Keast added.

"I and John Brain both know that resting is a key part of fitness and if players need a week off then they will be given the time off. Ben will be given time off in July because of the tour."

All players, with the exception of new signing Mark Gabey because of a knee operation, will return to Sixways on Monday for the resumption of training.

And Keast has reassured the retained Worcester players that the 14 new Sixways signings will have to fight to take the jerseys from them.

"We feel the players from last year are good enough otherwise we wouldn't have retained them," said Keast.

"They are the people in possession of the shirts at present because they did very well last season. We ended the season in good form and we want to get back to that level as soon as possible.

"I am very pleased with the squad because I think every player is hungry. That is the key in professional sport today, you are only as good as your last game and the only way to keep on top is to be hungry to win and succeed."