ANDY Keast believes Ben Hinshelwood's first international start tonight can be the springboard to a World Cup place with Scotland.

Worcester Rugby Club's assistant coach is confident the free-scoring centre can win his place in Scotland's squad for next year's showpiece event Down Under after John Leslie's retirement.

The 25-year-old centre makes his first start for Scotland against Canada East tonight in Kingston in the first match of a six-game North American tour.

And Keast is certain that Hinshelwood can make a big enough impression to force his way into World Cup contention as the countdown to Australia begins.

"There is a centre place open now after John Leslie's retirement," said Keast. "Ben has improved massively since Christmas for Worcester and I think he can keep developing.

"I think a lot of the improvement was down to a change in his position. For me he is an outside centre and has all the qualities for that role.

"He has worked very hard and he has had his just rewards. However, there is the World Cup coming up and if Ben can show his quality then who knows?"

Keast played an integral part in Hinshelwood's call-up to the international scene through his contacts with Scotland coach Ian McGeechan.

Keast knew McGeechan from their time together with the British Lions in South Africa and recommended the Australian-born player for the tour.

"Ben's phoned me recently and said he was quite nervous about the tour," said Keast, "but I've just told him to be himself.

"He has the ability, there is no doubt about that."

Scotland's tour, from June 6-22, includes games with Canada and the United States of America.

However, with all Worcester players due back on July 1, Hinshelwood will get little time for holiday.

"He will be allowed a week off later on but every player will be back for July 1," said Keast.