Sydney, Nov 16: France prepares for the Rugby World Cup semi-final against England in Sydney.
France are brimming with composure, spirit and confidence before their big northern hemisphere decider against England in the World Cup semi-finals on Sunday (November 16). In their Bondi Beach retreat, a two-minute walk away from one of the most famous beaches in the world, the French did not change their routine one iota during the week. Gym in the morning, videos in the early afternoon, training at the end of the day and complete freedom in between. Team doctor Thierry Hermerel said he was going through a very quiet week. His only patients were lock Jerome Thion, who had 21 micro-stiches in his lip, and centre Yannick Jauzion, who suffered a bruised leg. Until Friday, the team stayed as available for the media as they had been since the start of the tournament: coach and manager on Monday, eight players on Tuesday, the 22-man line-up on Wednesday, seven more players including the captain on Thursday.


Team manager Jo Maso admitted he had a scare on Tuesday when the team's hotel was invaded by scores of Australian and English reporters and cameramen who had ignored the French up to then.



Flyhalf Frederic Michalak and centre Tony Marsh were the prime targets. Marsh, because he speaks English and overcame cancer. Michalak because he is the great revelation of the World Cup and all the British journalists wanted his comments on Jonny Wilkinson's apparent troubles.


Coach Bernard Laporte side-stepped a war of words with England, saying he had great respect for Clive Woodward, his English counterpart. Woodward replied saying the respect was mutual. The French coach also spent hours analysing videos.


Bureau Report