The Mole: Scotland coach slams critics of Lachlan Coote Great Britain selection

Aussie Lachlan Coote's selection to play for Great Britain has caused a stir in the Old Dart - but former Scotland coach Steve McCormack has slammed the former Panther and Cowboy's critics.

A host of England greats - led by former Test centre Garry Schofield - have slammed the decision to hand Coote a Lions jumper because he was born and raised in Sydney.

But Britain's coach - ironically another Aussie in Wayne Bennett - chose Coote due to his good form and Scottish ancestry.

Coote has already played for Scotland three years ago and McCormack revealed he lost money to do so.

"He'd just come off the back of an NRL season, his body needed fixing up but he really wanted to play for Scotland and he was immensely proud to do so," McCormack told the English press.

"I can't speak highly enough of him and the commitment he showed to representing Scotland. He was over here for six weeks, away from his family, and he lost money to play for us.

"It would have cost him money to play for Scotland, but he was so motivated to represent his heritage, and he did with some fantastic displays.

"He's very proud of his ancestry and he was absolutely top class, and I'm delighted he's been selected in this squad."

Former Raiders star Blake Austin has also been selected in the squad.