Scotland supporters will have the chance next month to show their appreciation for the record-breaking career of one of the country’s favourite sons. Chris Paterson, Scotland’s cap and points record-holder, announced his international retirement last year, saying the time was right to bow out from his glittering 12-year Test match run.
 
Paterson’s last international was the Rugby World Cup match against England at Eden Park, Auckland back in October. Now, next month’s Calcutta Cup clash at Murrayfield – Scotland’s opening match in the 2012 RBS 6 Nations Championship – will give Scotland fans the opportunity to bid him farewell in the stadium that he graced from his debut against Spain in 1999.
 

Chris Paterson has always been the fans' favourite

Before the action kicks-off on Saturday 4 February, Paterson will present the match ball and fans will have the opportunity to acclaim his contribution.
 
Scottish Rugby's Director of Communications and Public Affairs, Dominic McKay, said: “Many fans contacted us when Mossy announced he was bowing out from the international game and wanted him to know how much they had valued and enjoyed his performances for Scotland.
 
“Mossy is not one to ‘have a fuss made’ but it’s absolutely appropriate that he returns to a packed house at Murrayfield on the day of the Calcutta Cup for a final curtain call.”

McKay added: “Scottish Rugby intends that any international players, male and female, who reach milestones in the game, will be similarly honoured in such a public manner in the future.”

Paterson said: “I’ve always treasured the support I’ve had throughout my career. I’ve spoken about getting goose-bumps with some of the cheers I’ve had at Murrayfield and the response I’ve had from Scotland fans since I announced my retirement has been almost over-whelming.
 
“I’ll be at Murrayfield for the Calcutta Cup game, firstly as a Scotland supporter, and secondly to say thanks.”
 
The Scotland v England match is already sold-out, however if you want to savour the special atmosphere of match day at Murrayfield, tickets are still available from £17.50 for students and children and £35 for adults for the Scotland v France RBS 6 Nations match on Sunday 26 February, kick-off 3pm. Tickets are available on our website www.scottishrugby.org <http://www.scottishrugby.org/> , via the 24 hour credit card hotline on 0844 335 3933 or in person from the Scottish Rugby Ticket Centre at Murrayfield Stadium.