The 31-year-old suffered heartache at the turn of the year fracturing his tibia and fibula in his left leg during a routine training session with his club Clermont.

It is the second time in three years that the former Scotland captain has been sidelined with a serious injury after he suffered damage to his anterior cruciate ligament in November 2006.

And while White will miss the whole of the 6 Nations he is adamant that Scotland will lay down a marker of their intent during their opening clash with France on February 7.

“The biggest thing is to lay down a marker in the opening game against the French because if you can start with a win, it sets you up for the rest of the competition," said White.

“Last year, we just didn't perform and made it far too easy for Wales, but if we can put pressure on France, get in their faces, and take our chances, I am convinced we can be successful.

“It's important, because that would generate a lot of confidence before we travel to Cardiff and if the Welsh were to get beaten by England at Twickenham, all the pressure would suddenly be on their shoulders.

“We must go out with the right amount of belief and courage, but it should be a very open 6 Nations, so why shouldn't we be in contention?”