But Robinson, who oversaw a disappointing RBS 6 Nations campaign earlier this year, believes the unbeaten three-match tour of Australasia in the summer will give his side a fighting chance against the All Blacks at Murrayfield – and beyond.

Five of the seven potential debutants are from the ranks of Glasgow Warriors; Stuart McInally, Peter Horne, Peter Murchie, Tommy Seymour and Henry Pyrgos while two come from the Edinburgh stables; Alex Dunbar and Grant Gilchrist.

And although it’s been a while since his charges were together, Robinson insists it won’t take long for them to get reacquainted.

“It’s always an exciting time when the Scotland squad comes together ahead of the first Test match of the season,” he said.

“It’s some four months since Scotland last played an international so when the squad reconvenes there’ll be an element of renewing acquaintances and reigniting the spark and spirit that was such a key part of our success on our summer tour.

“New Zealand are formidable opponents. They do the basics exceptionally well and play with a pace and ruthlessness. It’s no coincidence that they are the best team in the world.

“We must look to build on the physical commitment of our players against Australia, Fiji and Samoa. As ever the Scotland supporters are right behind us and with more than 55,000 tickets sold already for our game against New Zealand, the players are determined to give their all.”

Scotland training squad;

Backs: Mike Blair, Nick De Luca, Alex Dunbar, Max Evans, Stuart Hogg, Peter Horne, Ruaridh Jackson, Lee Jones, Greig Laidlaw, Sean Lamont, Rory Lawson, Peter Murchie, Henry Pyrgos, Matt Scott, Tommy Seymour, and Tim Visser.

Forwards: John Barclay, Kelly Brown, Geoff Cross, David Denton, Ross Ford, Grant Gilchrist, Ryan Grant, Richie Gray, Dougie Hall, Jim Hamilton, Allan Jacobsen, Alastair Kellock, Scott Lawson, Stuart McInally, Ross Rennie, Tom Ryder, Alasdair Strokosch and Kyle Traynor.