The only time the Scots have tasted success at the Stade de France was in 1999, when they went on to claim the last ever Five Nations title.

And Hines, who played in France with Perpignan for four years, believes Scotland’s great form heading into the Championship will prevent a repeat of last year’s opening round 18-9 defeat to Marc Lievremont’s men.

He said: “History in France would suggest the pressure is firmly on them. They're going to have to struggle to keep their home record intact against us.

“Our form has been good and we just want to continue that. Last year we were slow starters in the Six Nations and we can't let that happen again.

“It's going to be physical, no doubt, but we're preparing ourselves for it.

Hines starts in the unfamiliar role of blindside flanker but is unfazed about his positional switch having played most of his rugby in the second row.

He added: “Once it gets past second and third phase it's not so much different. I'm looking forward to it.”