Mitchell Pearce says the prospect of a new challenge in a new environment lay behind his move to Super League in the south of France

The 32-year-old halfback, who played over 300 NRL games and made 19 State of Origin appearances, has been signed by Catalans Dragons to plug the gap created by the retirement of fellow Aussie James Maloney.

Pearce has previously said his break-up with former professional dancer Kristin Scott led to the "worst year of his life".

RUGBY LEAGUE COVERAGE WITH PIT STOP. WHEN A DASH WARNING LIGHT SHOWS, THEY'LL SORT IT.