The 29-year-old centre, one of the stars of the last British Lions tour, has not played for Wales for two years.

A major shoulder injury, difficulties within the Wales camp and the disintegration of the Celtic Warriors franchise all combined to leave James close to quitting the game last season.

But he can see light at the end of the tunnel as he prepares to start the new campaign after moving over the border to join Harlequins.

James hopes playing for his English club in the Premiership and European Cup will impress new Wales coach Mike Ruddock enough to earn a recall.

And playing "under the nose" of Lions coach Woodward every week can only help his chances of making next summer's tour to New Zealand.

"I've no regrets about leaving Wales," said James.

"I'd always aspired to play in the Premiership and coming here was a great opportunity for me.

"Last season was a frustrating period in my career. The politics was taking over, the enjoyment seemed to have gone out of it and I was questioning whether or not I wanted to continue.

"But it's fantastic that (Harlequins coach) Mark Evans showed so much belief in me. He brought me here and he wants me to play at outside centre and I'm delighted with that as well.

"The group of players we've got is a good mix of experience and up and coming lads and I thought it would be a good place to resurrect my international career.

"I've still got aspirations to play for Wales and believe I've still got a lot to offer. Now it's about producing the performances at Harlequins to stake that claim."