When did you first play rugby?
At about eight, at my local club North Berwick. I loved it and was a front-row until I shot up in height in my mid-teens.

When did things take off for you?
I missed Scotland U16 selection but grew half a foot one summer and had a good game for Stewart’s Melville HS v Strathallan when some guys were watching. So I made Scotland U18 and was coached by Eddie Pollock, who has had a huge influence on my development.

Who else helped you climb the ladder?
My mum has been a driving force, and guys like Jimmy Moran and Bryn Lockie at Stewart’s Melville.

Who did you like watching as a youngster?
Nathan Hines, Johnnie Beattie, Ally Hogg. Also Simon Taylor, who I played against in a club game a couple of years ago. I have a photo of me aged nine getting his autograph!

You were picked for the Macphail Scholarship to New Zealand. How did you find that?
Fantastic. To be immersed in that culture for three months, improving your skills and off-field behaviours, was incredible. I played for Christchurch Colts and my mentor was (ex-All Black) Dominic Bird.

What was the biggest benefit to your game?
My ball handling was a weakness before but it’s a strength now. I think my breakdown clear-out is one area that needs to improve.

Are you still in education?
Yes, I’m in my first year at Glasgow University studying geography. It’s beneficial to be doing something on the side.

Who are you playing for this season?
As an academy player at Glasgow we get loaned out and I’ve been playing for Stirling County – a brilliant club. Plus Scotland in the U20 Six Nations.

RW Verdict: Hunter-Hill is going up in the world – and not just because he’s 6ft 7in and still growing. A natural leader who captained Scotland U18 in last year’s FIRA/AER European Championship, he’s ready to kick on.

First published in the April 2016 edition of Rugby World magazine.