France look to lay World Cup marker in Six Nations

The Six Nations Championship starts on Saturday with European rugby in buoyant mood just over a year out from the 2023 World Cup in France.

England's 2003 triumph remains the only time a northern hemisphere side have been crowned world champions.

France, however, signalled their intention to match that feat with a superb 40-25 win over New Zealand in November.

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Add in the return of crowds following the easing of coronavirus restrictions and you have a heady cocktail of emotions.

But while France's ability to play stunning rugby in one off-games is unquestioned, can they reel off successive high-pressure wins?

A first Six Nations title since 2010 would underline their World Cup credentials.

November saw the southern hemisphere 'big three' of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa all beaten by European opponents on the same weekend for the first time since 2002.

Admittedly, the Wallabies and the world champion Springboks only went down by one point each against Wales and England respectively.

But the way France, with world player of the year Antoine Dupont at the helm, defeated the All Blacks was something else.

France have enjoyed two second-placed finishes in the Six Nations since former scrum-half Fabien Galthie, who won't be with his players this weekend due to a positive Covid test, took over as coach.

"Everything has been organised for Sunday's game since I've been in isolation," Galthie told AFP.

"I watch images from training, the staff will take over under the control of (team manager) Raphael Ibanez.

'Northern hemisphere in great shape'

Ibanez had previously tried to ease the pressure on France by noting the November wins of their European rivals.

"Scotland put 30 points on Australia, England