The 22-year-old qualifies for Scotland thanks to his Glasgow-born grandparents and is determined to silence critisism over his nationality.Â
"I know where my roots are from - and they are from Glasgow, Scotland," said Blake.
"Finally now I have got the chance to show the public I can play rugby. Hopefully after the weekend those negative comments will stop.
"Do I feel any extra pressure? Well if the team were not as welcoming as they are then it would be a lot tougher.
"I just go out and represent the people I play rugby for. This weekend it's the Scottish public. If I can prove to them [I'm good enough] and make them proud then I'm sure everybody will be happy."
Blake was called up to the Scotland side for their Six Nations campaign in January despite not having played a single game for club side Edinburgh - but did not feature in the tournament.
"I'm just so proud to be getting my chance" he continued.
"International rugby is the pinnacle and I'm just stoked to be involved.
"It would mean everything to get a place in the World Cup squad. It's what you dream of growing up."
In other team news, scrum-half Henry Pyrgos is captain, Wasps back Ruaridh Jackson starts in an unfamiliar full-back role while Richie Vernon makes his return after a three-year absence, with the former No8 winning his first cap since switching to the centre positions.