OXFORD University’s Stan McKeen hopes to boost his World Cup prospects with a good performance against Georgia at Iffley Road on Monday night (7.15).

The Canadian international back-row forward (pictured) was man-of-the-match when the Dark Blues defeated Cambridge at Twickenham in December, helping earn him a Barbarians call-up for next month’s Mobbs Memorial Match.

McKeen knows excelling in that match and against Georgia, who are in England’s World Cup group, will aid his bid to add to his 21 caps and make Canada’s squad.

“I see every game as a good opportunity to show what I have got. I can’t really take a game off, ” said McKeen.

“Both games are good opportunities, particularly Georgia because Canada played against them in November.

“From what I have seen and heard, Georgia have a really big and strong pack, so it will be really good to test myself against them as a back-row player.”

He added: “It is a long way for somebody to come from Victoria, Canada, but I will hopefully get a video of the game and send it out to them.”

McKeen, 28, will appear for the Barbarians, who will be coached by Italy boss and Oxford Blue Nick Mallett against Bedford Blues at Goldington Road on April 19.

He said: “It is a big honour. They are one of the teams you grow up watching as a kid.

“They always play such a good brand of rugby. I am pretty excited about it.”

Law student McKeen is busy revising for his final exams, so is looking forward to a night-off.

“I am more or less living in the library, so a trip to the rugby field is very welcome to break it up,” he said.

Georgia will be the first international side to visit Iffley Road since Tonga in 2005.

Tickets are available on the night, and from the OURFC office on 01865 432000.