Leigh Halfpenny has kicked under intense pressure in a British & Irish Lions jersey, but admits the passion of Toulon’s European semi-final clash against Leinster reminded him of the most demanding of international encounters.
The Wales full-back played in all three tests of the Lions’ triumphant 2013 tour of Australia, winning player of the series, and broke the Lions points record held by Neil Jenkins in the process.
But Halfpenny insisted Toulon's 25-20 win over Leinster on Sunday was among the hardest matches he has played.
"The intensity and physicality was right up there with an international match," the 26-year-old said.
"It was touch and go throughout and games sometimes are decided by very small margins.
"You could not switch off for one second and credit to the boys. The character they showed was immense.
"Something like this is what you grow up dreaming of. You work hard day in, day out to be involved in the big matches, and the success and ambition of Toulon, I felt I wanted to be a part of that.
"To be rubbing shoulders with these guys, I can only feel it is helping my game."
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