France started their pursuit of a first RBS 6 Nations title since their 2010 Grand Slam triumph with an impressive 30-12 defeat of Italy on the opening weekend before their match with Ireland fell victim to the weather.

Scotland have found the going far tougher and followed up an opening round loss to England with a 27-13 defeat to Wales, scoring their only try of the tournament in vain at the Millennium Stadium.

Greig Laidlaw’s score was Scotland’s first try in five games and this weekend their attacking options are further reduced following an injury to winger Max Evans, but Harinordoquy believes the Scots are not to be underestimated.

“Maybe the Scots frighten us offensively as the Irish scare us defensively,” he said.

“There are not many teams who are able to do that, hold the ball for four, five minutes.

“They move the ball quickly and move around a lot. It's still easier to have the ball than to defend.

“It takes a lot of energy (to defend) and we need to take the game by the throat and not let them advance down the field. Then it's up to us.”