Scotland centre Joe Ansbro is eager for Andy Robinson's 30-man squad to start well when their tournament begins on September 10 against Romania in Invercargill, with matches against Georgia, Argentina and England to follow.
Ansbro said: "They will all be fairly tough, physical packs and we're going to have to hit the ground running - we can't start slowly. That's a big priority.
"When that first whistle goes we'll explode out of the blocks."
Seven players missed the final selection cut, with three other members of Robinson's 40-man provisional squad ruled out through injury.
Robinson utilised his full squad in warm-up wins over Ireland and Italy and Ansbro is now intent on staking his claim for a starting place.
He added: "The guys are itching. There's a lot of competition for places - that was highlighted in the last two games.
"Everyone's pushing for a starting spot - we all want to be involved.
"Getting in the squad is one thing but obviously you want to get into the 15 and then it's about performing and inspiring the nation."
On paper at least, Scotland's preliminary group programme suggests the fixtures increase in difficulty until the October 1 clash with England, which could decide the progress of Scotland's men.
London Irish centre Ansbro is hoping to reverse the 22-16 loss Scotland suffered at Twickenham in March.
He said: "We're definitely looking forward to that game. "It was a close one in the Six Nations and we'll be hoping to be on the right side of that result."
Ansbro made his Test debut last November, his maiden appearance coming as Scotland beat defending world champions South Africa at Murrayfield.
Since then the 25-year-old, who can also play on the wing, has made seven appearances and scored his first Test try in the win over Ireland earlier this month.
Ansbro added: "Every step of the way it's been a surprise and I'm really pleased to be involved with a great bunch of lads, really enjoy the coaches and it's great to play at Murrayfield.
"Representing Scotland in the Autumn Tests and the Six Nations really was a dream come true and now hopefully I'll play at the World Cup."
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