England, Nov 15: England centre Mike Catt insists big-match experience will see his side progress to the final of the World Cup.
The 32-year-old was a surprise inclusion in England's World Cup squad, but after an impressive display as a substitute against Wales last weekend, he has secured a starting place in Sunday's semi-final.
Catt told reporters Grandstand that if England can keep their focus and play to their strengths on Sunday, they will beat France.
"I look at the team Clive has picked and there are some big-game players, guys who will step up and perform on Sunday," he said.
"The World Cup is about winning games - and we've done that so far. Who cares how we have played?
"The French are a fantastic side and capable of anything on their day but I think we have the experience to see us through.
"If we use our heads rather than relying on brute strength we can take them."
Catt also dismissed criticism of fly-half Jonny Wilkinson, who struggled to impose himself in England's 28-17 quarter-final win over Wales.
While admitting that Wilkinson had not played to his potential, Catt argued that the team caould not always look to their renowned fly-half.
"The players around Jonny are not doing their job properly - the trouble with him is that he thinks he can do everything himself," he said.
"Jonny's workload is massive both in defence and attack and that is his main problem.
"We just need to have all 15 players thinking and playing the way he does."
Bureau Report