Leinster-bound scot Nathan Hines insists his France departure was a necessity after fearing his Lions tour would be held against him on the continent.

The 32-year-old second row announced last week that he would be leaving French outfit Perpignan to sign a two-year deal with Leinster.

And Hines – who has 58 Scotland caps - is relishing the fresh challenge in Dublin and is adamant the Magners League playing schedule will be a big boost to his national team performances.

“I do feel the travel from France to Scotland, and the fact you'd struggle to get your place back after every Scotland session, affected my rugby,” said Hines.

"A lot of Leinster boys will be involved with Ireland in November, and there are no Magners League games then, so I hope I can improve and step up for Leinster and Scotland, and show there's still a few years left in the old body yet.

"Perpignan were not keen on me leaving them to go with the Lions, but I was never going to turn down that opportunity, so I knew they wouldn't be too happy with me when I went back.

"I don't like to stand still. You look at Perpignan who have 10,000 season-ticket holders and you think that's impressive, but Leinster have 10,500. They have always had a lot of potential, but haven't achieved it.”