GARETH Anscombe is well aware that he must make the most of his chance at fly-half today as Wales look to get their autumn campaign off to a winning start against Scotland in Cardiff.

The Cardiff Blues playmaker would love to build on his current run of Test appearances in the number 10 jersey, and that’s why he is eager to shine in front of the Principality Stadium crowd (kick-off 2.45pm).

“It’s a good opportunity and a chance to put a stake in the ground,” said the 27-year-old.

“Everyone is pretty excited and so am I. I’m just looking forward to ripping into it this weekend.

“Wales are pretty blessed with 10s at the moment and there is a lot of competition for places. That’s good for the squad.

“I get first dibs and I want to perform well and fight for the spot. I am sure Jarrod (Evans) will get a chance later on, but I want to lead the side early and help us to play well.”

He added: “Wales have a pretty famous history in the fly-half position.

“Sometimes you can win or lose games and, rightly or wrongly, 10s can come in for a bit of criticism.

“And when things are going well you can often get more credit than you deserve.

“It is part of the position and most 10s understand that.

“I want to make sure I do the little things well and try not to overthink or overplay my hand.

“It is my opportunity to be my own man this weekend.”

Anscombe’s versatility has seen him play at full-back for Wales almost as often as he has at fly-half, but now that he has an another opportunity to deliver at 10, it’s one he wants to take.

“A hell of a lot has gone on over the past four years,” he said. “My versatility has been well documented and I’m glad I can play in both positions, certainly at this level.

“I’m glad to be getting the chance to play at 10 because it is where I prefer to be playing.

“With some guys injured, and others not being able to play, it has given me an opportunity to play.”

He continued: “At times, versatility gets you into squads and onto the pitch, which is the most important thing.

“Would I like to play one position and get more minutes there? Yes, that’s a fair comment.

“But I’m fairly comfortable in both positions and I have trained at 10 for the past two weeks and been in and out of there with the Blues.

“You have to adjust at times, but this is my chance to put my hand up and it is an opportunity I need to take.

“I’m fairly comfortable with how we are trying to play. I’ve been here for the past four years and I’m looking forward to trying to help to lead the side as well.

“I’ve got a fairly experienced midfield outside me and hopefully they will take some pressure off me.”

Wales chief Warren Gatland has praised Anscombe for his leadership within the squad over the past year and hopes he goes well today.

“We have been really pleased with Gareth over the last 12 months in terms of his leadership, his maturity, the way he has been in the squad,” he said.

“And hopefully he goes out there and makes the most of it. I think we will see some really good rugby from him, hopefully this season and hopefully for a few years to come.”