The 26-year-old Borders player was on the bench for their 36-6 thrashing by Ireland last weekend but will start alongside Gregor Townsend in the Stade de France.

"This first cap is good for me but my aim is definitely to stay in the team in the future, especially with the World Cup coming," Utterson said.

"At first I was quite surprised at being called up, but looking back on it this selection is the logical progression of my career.

"I now want to seize this opportunity to make an impression and gradually climb the steps."

It could not be a more daunting start for Utterson, facing the defending champions who will be eager to bounce back from their 25-17 defeat to England at Twickenham.

"The French are a very strong, dangerous and fast side," he admitted.

"I'm excited about it all. I'm living for rugby and for my first cap I will fight until the end. I'll have to perform well anyway because I've invited all my family and friends to watch me play for the first time for Scotland."