Despite losing 23-16 in Paris in their final game on Saturday, wins against Italy and Ireland earned Scotland third place in the table and suggested the building blocks are in place for tilt at the trophy in 2014.

And the 21-year-old Glasgow Warriors star is convinced the Scots’ performances in recent weeks have put to bed last season’s wooden spoon disappointment and can only breed confidence among the players.

And despite losing their last two games of the championship, Weir – who made only his second Test start in the 23-16 defeat in Paris after starting the first three 6 Nations games on the bench – admitted the side had taken huge strides forward to compete with the very best sides. 

“We feel we had a wee bit more to play for this year, especially with how close this Championship was,” said Weir.

“If we'd won against Wales, we'd have gone to Paris possibly in contention for the title. It’s disappointing that didn’t turn out, but we’ve taken a great step forward.”