The New Zealand-born wing will be handed his Scotland debut by interim head coach Scott Johnson when the team runs out at Twickenham for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations opener and Calcutta Cup clash.
But despite being born and raised half way around the world, 24-year-old Maitland says he will be fulfilling a life-long ambition when he finally represents the land of his Glasgow-born grandparents.
His father used to wake him in the middle of the night to watch Scotland compete in the Six Nations but the 'Kilted Kiwi' claims he is now honoured to be the one running out in dark blue.
He told Press Association Sport: "I'm very proud to be given the opportunity to start by Johnno - it's very special and I'm very proud.
"My parents are happy for me too. They are very proud and talking to my dad, he's a man of little emotion, but he definitely showed a lot of emotion when I told him the news.
"My aunty and uncle are flying up for the game from Johannesburg, and if I get to play the next few games, my mum and dad will hopefully come over too."
Maitland, who moved to Glasgow from Crusaders last year, insists his decision to leave the land of his birth had paid off.
"When I came over, international rugby was on my radar. My dad said I had the opportunity to play for Scotland, I'm half Scottish and it's in my blood, so I was very lucky," he said.
"It was difficult coming over mid-season, coming into a new team and learning new calls, but I managed to find my feet quite early and got a few good performances out there.
"I've got a lot to work on still and this Saturday I hope to get the ball and show what I've got."
Maitland is the only uncapped player in a squad which mixes experience with the odd youthful face.
Despite having just come off a year which saw the team end last season's Six Nations with the wooden spoon and then finish with a humiliating defeat to Tonga, Maitland insists morale in the camp is good.
He said: "There's a good vibe around the team, a fresh start with coaches and junior players. It's going to be an exciting day on Saturday.
"The squad is full of depth and competition, you've got to keep on your toes. It's healthy for Scotland and Scotland rugby. I've got to go on through the week with confidence and hopefully I will perform well."
The winger, who has scored once in six outings for Glasgow, has already tasted success at Twickenham - something his new countrymen have not managed since 1983.
"I was lucky to play at Twickenham with the Crusaders," he said. "But playing against England is going to be very special.
"I've got good memories of Twickenham as we won, so hopefully we can enforce those good numbers again on Saturday."
Gilbert has released a new line of rugby cleats. The Gilbert Virtuo 8S is part of the exciting new product. Check it out.
The entire All Blacks apparel line has been updated for 2013/14. Check out the New Zealand All Blacks polo.
The Nike Tiempo is a solid rugby cleat and one of few styles still made from full-grain natural leather.
The Gilbert Blitz 8S rugby cleat is a great cleat at a great price of $69.99. Get a new pair of cleats today.
A cool looking all black rugby cleat with the high performance adidas is known for. Get in the Gear!
Wear the crest of the British and Irish Lions on your t-shirt. A great look for the summer.
$29.99
The All Blacks Performance t-shirt is black with hints of blue from the training jersey. Very Cool.
The New Zealand All Blacks training jersey for 2013/14. Get in the Gear!
The USA Rugby Pro Alternate rugby jersey is perfect for any fan of the Eagles. Get yours to wear during the summer Test matches.
The NEW All Blacks 2013/14 jersey has arrived at World Rugby Shop. Dare to wear the colors of the All Blacks.
