Highlanders flanker John Hardie’s focus is on a successful Super Rugby season despite speculation of a move to Scotland in the near future.

Hardie, who qualifies for Scotland through his grandparents, says he is highly motivated ahead of the Highlanders’ campaign after doing a few things differently during the summer.

“That (Scotland) is always an option but I want to fulfil my potential in New Zealand,” he said.

“I’ve always aspired to be an All Black but rugby can be pretty cruel at times. You just have to deal with what is dished up.”

Hardie, 26, has played 65 games for Southland and 44 for the Highlanders but those numbers would have almost doubled had he not suffered some long-term injuries.

The openside flanker said his body was feeling good ahead of a new season.

“I just want to have a good year with no significant injuries,” he said.

“There is a good mix of loosies. There are some good players knocking on the door so the competition will be tough.”

Hardie has been included among the reserves in a 28-man squad for the Highlanders’ final pre-season match on Thursday night against the Rebels in Melbourne.

The Highlanders will be looking to make it three from three, having already beaten the Crusaders 29-26 in Timaru and the Brumbies 24-19 in Wagga Wagga.

Hardie said the mini-tour to Australia was proving a valuable experience.

“We are just trying to get our structures right and get our game plan working,” he said.

“We need to tidy up a few things around our defence and attack, and do the little things right.”

Highlanders: Kurt Baker, Waisake Naholo, Teihorangi Walden, Jason Emery, Patrick Osborne, Lima Sopoaga, Josh Renton, Elliot Dixon, Shane Christie, Dan Pryor, Tom Franklin, Mark Reddish, Ross Geldenhuys, Ash Dixon, Kane Hames. Res: Brendon Edmonds, Liam Coltman, Pingi Ta’alapitaga, Joe Wheeler, Alex Ainley, Gareth Evans, John Hardie, Nasi Manu, Fumiaka Tanaka, Marty Banks, Mike Collins, Ryan Tongia, Trent Renata.