Calder aims to improve standards

Calder has been put forward by Scotland's Premiership clubs

Finlay Calder will campaign for a new level of respect on and off the park if he is successful in his bid to become the next president of Scottish Rugby.

The 51-year-old former Scotland captain will stand against incumbent Jim Stevenson, with Jim Gracie expected to make it a three-way contest.

"Would it not be great to welcome England to Murrayfield and let them sing their national anthem," he said.

"Have complete silence during goal kicks and then run them off the park."

Talking to BBC Radio Scotland, Calder, who also led the British and Irish Lions during an illustrious career, added: "To have Andy Robinson lift the Calcutta Cup with his captain - that would be the ultimate irony, and I'd love to be part of that."

He then went on to reveal his admiration for the behaviour of the Irish team and fans during England's 2007 visit.

"I've been privileged to either play in or witness some of the most fantastic sporting occasions concerning rugby, said Calder.

"Above them all, above everything I ever did in my playing life, was the Irish hosting England at Croke Park two years ago.

I'm still as passionate about the game as I was when I first pulled on the boots as a boy 45 years ago Finlay Calder

"The welcome afforded to the English was outstanding. The Irish were fantastic hosts and they set the bar at a level we should all aspire to.

"I would try and lift our standards to that level. That's what I'd like to think my legacy would be."

Scotland's clubs will chose between Calder, Stevenson and Gracie at the annual general meeting in June.

"I'm still as passionate about the game as I was when I first pulled on the boots as a boy 45 years ago," continued Calder.

"I have a lot of experience to bring to the table.

"I still love the game and I was very flattered to be asked (by the Premiership clubs).

"I've played at the highest level and latterly, in my 40s, I've played at the lowest level as well, so I have a pretty good feel for the game in Scotland.

"Jim Stevenson has done a grand job and I wish him well, and good on Jim Gracie.

"If the clubs choose me, great, and if they choose either of the Jims, then that's fine by me too. As long as we all get behind whoever is chosen."

Calder, who won 34 caps for Scotland, was a formidable opponent in his playing days and is a notoriously straight-talking character.

"I'd be doing everyone who voted for me a disservice if I kept my my mouth shout when I saw something I didn't agree with, although I have mellowed with age," he joked.

"But, if successful, I will respect the constitution."