Masoe making the most of his opportunity

New Zealand loose forward Chris Masoe is eager to prosper after being granted a rare start against an understrength France in Auckland on Saturday.

Wellington and Hurricanes back-rower Masoe has been handed the number eight jersey ahead of his provincial captain Rodney So’oialo.

And the Samoan-born enforcer, often Richie McCaw’s deputy on the openside, wants to make the most of the opportunity.

“I see myself trying to get in there, in that mix,” Mosoe told The Dominion Post.

“Giving me an opportunity to play number eight I can put pressure on Rodney. That’s what I want to do, put pressure on those guys.

“We work together, but when I get the opportunity I want to prove I can make the starting line-up. I’m looking forward to the opportunity this week. Number eight is always a position I like to play.

“It’s a good opportunity for me. It’s going to be an exciting weekend.”

French counterpart Olivier Magne is also counting his blessings after being given the chance to impress.

The veteran London Irish flanker may be a candidate for the World Cup squad after his enforced recall.

“I want to win the World Cup and I know I need a good test on Saturday to have a chance to be in the squad,” said Magne.

“We have to enjoy the game against the All Blacks; enjoy the moment. We know we just have a little chance to beat them but you never know what happens. It’s just fifteen guys against fifteen guys.

“All the people think this is not a great French team.

“It’s a hard game because the All Blacks are the best team in the world, but we have nothing to lose. This is a great opportunity for us to make the World Cup.”

Former Auckland Blues prop Christian Califano returns to familiar surroundings for his 71st cap.

“It was a good experience for me and my family,” said the 35-year-old.

“The rugby is the best in the world and all the people were very nice.”