France try-scoring blitz addresses 'revenge mode' talks against Boks 

SPOTLIGHT: There’s been plenty of talk about revenge in the rugby fraternity following France’s 2023 World Cup quarterfinal exit against the Springboks.

It’s been just over two years since that heartbreaking event for the French in Paris, and the two teams will lock horns at the same venue this weekend.

Winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey, who started in that World Cup quarterfinal match in his debut Test season, clarified his side’s stance on any talks of revenge against the world champions.

“I don’t think we’re in revenge mode anymore. I think we’re more focused on our objective, which is the 2027 World Cup,” Bielle-Biarrey said.

“This match is a real challenge, a big one. We’re hosting the two-time world champions at home, the reigning Rugby Championship winners, so there you have it, it’s our first match of the season, our return to action.

“We know they’ve already played quite a few matches, so it’s a real challenge and a good match for our preparation for the 2027 World Cup.”

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The devastating winger who scored 18 tries in 19 Tests is yet to get one over the line against the Boks.

He will have an opportunity to tick that box should he be selected for this clash, but he is well aware that it won’t be easy.

Bielle-Biarrey had huge praise for the Boks and the player depth they possess, despite missing players through injuries and suspensions.

“They [South Africa] have a lot of experience. No matter which team they’re playing against, they always manage to perform, whether it’s their veterans or the new players joining the team.

“So it’s true that it’s quite impressive, and it’s also quite motivating for us to know that, no matter which team they send, it’s going to be a huge challenge for us. That’s what makes it so exciting.

The 22-year-old spoke about France’s preparation for this clash and their ideal objectives they want to reach ahead of matchday.

“I can’t say that everything was perfect from the very first training session.

“We had a debriefing afterwards. There’s still some time to get used to things, some points of reference, but that’s normal.

“[Last] Wednesday was our first training session with 42 players. We’ll have another one this week to get as close as possible to the game plan.

“The game plan remains essentially the same. After that, it’s more about the strategy; we all need to be on the same page.

Meanwhile, fullback Léo Barré replaces injured Bayonne flyhalf Joris Segonds in the group of 42 players selected by Fabien Galthié to prepare for the reunion with the South Africans.