Ahead of the Emirates Airline Edinburgh 7s, new signing Roddy Grant sheds some light on what makes him tick in the latest First XV Q & A. Born in Botswana, raised in South Africa, but a proud Scot, Grant talks about classic albums, the glorious Scottish weather and how one of his team-mates resembles the host of Strictly Come Dancing.

Roddy and five other Edinburgh players, Ally Hogg, Jim Thompson, Greig Laidlaw, John Houston and Andrew Turnbull will all be appearing for Scotland 7s this weekend (Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 May) at Murrayfield. For ticket info please click here and to make sure you don’t miss another campaign of record-breaking rugby reserve an Edinburgh 09/10 Season Ticket by calling 0131 346 5180.

Front row questions: First club you ever played for?
For my primary school which was Western Province Prep school. I started playing there when I was aged 11.
Front row questions: First position you ever played in?
In the centre – I used to have more pace back then. I moved to the back row when I was 15.
Front row questions: First time you thought you would play professional rugby?
I suppose it was when I started getting involved in the first XV at school and played Provincial stuff with Natal Sharks’ age group teams.
Second row questions: Most memorable try?
I haven’t scored many, but one that comes to mind is the Plate Final for Scotland 7s in Dubai.
Second row questions: Most difficult opponent?
That is a difficult one. In 7s, I would say David Pocock of Australia and Ally Hogg in training is a tough opponent; he is a great all-round athlete.
Back row questions: Greatest ever achievement?
Becoming Scotland 7s captain and getting selected for Scotland ‘A’. Getting my professional contract with Edinburgh is also up there.
Back row questions: Greatest ever holiday?
It is between Mallorca last summer and a skiing holiday with the family in Austria.
Back row questions: Greatest ever film seen?
Training Day
Half-back questions: Last CD you bought or downloaded?
Prodigy
Half-back questions: Favourite ever CD?
Paul Simon
Midfield questions: Best stadium you have ever played in?
Murrayfield because of the great crowd, history and tradition.
Midfield questions: Best aspect about living in Edinburgh?
The great weather – in a one-week window!
Back three questions: Biggest influence on your career so far?
My Dad
Back three questions: Main hobby away from rugby?
Golf (playing much better than Mark Robertson)
Back three questions: Worst dressed player at Edinburgh?
I’m new to the squad, so I don’t want to ruffle any feathers. But I would go for Mark Robertson because, not only does he look like Bruce Forsyth, he also dresses like him.