Raphael Ibanez: France manager heralds ‘no lack of passion’ ahead of Six Nations decider
Despite England struggling so far in the Six Nations, France manager Raphael Ibanez is certain they will be tough opponents when they visit Paris on Saturday.
Ibanez’s side are a win away from a historic Grand Slam which would bring them their first title since 2010 and they are favoured over Eddie Jones’ floundering England.
A final win would help them further build towards their 2023 home World Cup after having already defeated New Zealand in the autumn, though Ibanez knows of the passion and heart England possess from his time playing hooker against them when he played internationally for France.
“The 40-25 victory over the All Blacks in the autumn created a super dynamic at the heart of the side which has lasted,” Ibanez said.
Personal experience
“Now there is a match to play against an England side for whom – I can testify first hand because I had the opportunity to live and play at the heart of domestic English rugby for six years – the absence of motivation does not exist.
“There is no lack of passion, which we sometimes have felt in French teams. All matches are important to them and it is that which makes them strong and tough to the point of being back breakingly so.”
How France handle the pressure will be key to their hopes of claiming their fourth Grand Slam of the Six Nations era and head coach Fabien Galthie insists they are ready to draw strength from previous setbacks.
“In terms of experience we are approaching our 25th Test together. It’s our third Six Nations and we have lived through a lot together,” Galthie said.
“These players now have a collective experience together, they have grown a lot in two years. We have learned from our defeats.
“Our runners-up places in the tournament have taught us an enormous amount and will continue to serve us well in this collective experience of our preparation.”
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