Scotland lock Nathan Hines revealed he has no regrets about snubbing Perpignan and their push for the French league title in favour of touring with the Lions.

The giant second row, who was last week called up as one of five locks to tour South Africa by boss Ian McGeechan, will miss Perpignan?s Top 14 semi-final on the weekend of May 23 or 24.

Perpignan have not won the French league title since 1955 but with Hines due to report for Lions duty in London on May 18, the giant Scottish lock has been forced to turn his back on his employers.

Hines has been heavily criticised by Perpignan supporters, who have accused the Scot of turning his back on those paying his wages.

"I have mixed feelings but what can I do?" he said. "If I am not in London on May 18 I will not be selected by the Lions.

"Last year I was a substitute for Perpignan in the play-off semi-final. Imagine if I was to refuse the Lions and the same thing happened?

"Representing the Lions is the crème-de-la-crème, the squad of squads, the best players from four countries. It is something all British players want to experience.

"Supporters don't understand the importance of the Lions for a guy like me, but they want Perpignan to have the best chance of winning the title."

The 32-year-old was left out of Perpignan's side for their 20-16 win over Clermont- Auvergne last weekend, with Coach Jacques Brunel preferring to select a second row which will feature in the play-offs.