Perpignan switch enlivens Parks

Parks won the last of his four caps in 2003

Richard Parks hopes his move to Perpignan on a two-year contract will reignite his international career.

"I have still got big Wales ambitions, in Perpignan I will be in a position to be considered whereas I wouldn't in Division One with Leeds," said Parks.

"I don't want to be perceived as a player that jumps ship, but the chance to go to Perpignan was quite special. I put in the request before relegation."

Parks, 28, won the last of his four Wales caps against Scotland in 2003.

The open-side flanker has also represented Newport, Pontypridd, and Celtic Warriors.

Newport Gwent Dragons made a move to bring him back to Rodney Parade, but Parks had already agreed the move to the Catalan side.

Perpignan were eager to strengthen their open-side options, having been rebuffed by Wales and Cardiff Blues flanker Martyn Williams.