Hosts Scotland will take the first step towards selecting their squad for the Rugby League Commonwealth Championship when they hold a trial at the University of Edinburgh this Sunday. Aspiring players from all over Scotland have registered for the selection day at Peffermill, with a mixture of current Under-18 internationals, improving club players and new recruits all vying for places in Steve McCormack’s squad.

Easterhouse Panthers centre Iain Allen has five years of international experience behind him, having played for Scotland Under-16s and 18s for two seasons each and this year made his Scotland Students debut. Moray Titans hooker Jordan Snitch hopes to add to his Scotland Under-18 honours, won two years ago, while several other trialists have worn the saltire on their chest at Under-16 and Under-18 level.

Perhaps the most intriguing potential recruit is Reece Patterson, a 19-year-old prop from North Berwick near Edinburgh, who is a Scotland Under-18 rugby union international keen to apply his skills to league.

Two other union players who will be trying out are Edinburgh Eagles duo Ben Porteous – a centre – and 17-year-old half-back Finn Murphy. Both have played for Edinburgh rugby union through the age group teams and been involved with Scotland RU national camp at Under-16s.

There will be another trial on the following Sunday, 1 June, at Bolton for exiles, Scottish-eligible players based in England, which will be overseen by coaches John and Jayson Duffy, Dave Rotheram, and head coach Steve McCormack.

Among the players registered for that trial are last year's Under-18 internationals Richard Harris of London Broncos, Hull KR winger Jack Stewart and Oliver Murray (St Helens) along with newcomers such as Broncos centre Harvey Burnett and second-rower James Jones of Warrington Wolves.

Anyone wishing to attend the trial this Sunday or 1 June can still register – send your contact and playing details to Ollie Cruickshank ASAP at [email protected].

Scotland play Wales, Jamaica and Australia in the RLCC2014 Group A with all games taking place at Broadwood Stadium in North Lanarkshire.

The event kicks off at 1pm on Friday 27 June and concludes at 6pm on Saturday 28 June. Admission on both days is FREE.

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Pictured: Jack Stewart will hope to cement a starting place