Best backs Hayes to win 100 caps

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Rory Best believes indomitable Ireland prop John Hayes has the durability to emerge as the country's first rugby centurion.

Hayes will become Ireland's most capped player when he runs out in tomorrow's RBS 6 Nations clash with Scotland at Murrayfield, making his 93rd appearance.

The 35-year-old Lions tighthead, one of the first names on the team sheet, will leave a void in Ireland's team when he eventually retires.

But front-row colleague Best expects him to smash through the century mark and continue operating at the coalface for some time to come.

'John's work ethic has kept him at the top. He's been written off so many times but always comes back and has had a great season,' said the Ulster hooker.

'It was not that long ago that people said he was finished but over the last three or four seasons he's been one of the most consistent performers for Ireland every week.

'You get what you see. He works hard for you and rarely misses a tackle. If the ball comes to him he catches it and takes it forward.

'He epitomises where you want to get to as a Test player and that's head down, hard work.

'I've no doubt he'll break 100 if he stays fit. Only John will know how much longer he can go on for.

'He'll go until he feels he can no longer perform at the level required. When that day comes he's honest enough to know it, but there's plenty of life in him yet.'

Best will be making his first start of the Six Nations at Murrayfield after head coach Declan Kidney revamped his side for Scotland.

After naming the same team for three matches in succession, Kidney made four changes as Ireland close in on a first Grand Slam since 1948.

'With three wins from three there is that extra bit of competition for places now,' said Best.

'The guys who have been dropped were playing well and it was made clear to us that they were all very tight calls.

'Now there's that extra pressure that you put on yourself to perform because the team needs it.

'Declan is a big fan of saying that you must treat every match as though it's your last.

'You have to take that mentality so that you do the jersey justice.'