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SIX NATIONS RECORD (2000-08): 2, 5, 1 (Grand Slam), 3, 1 (Grand Slam), 2, 1, 1, 3. Most successful country since Five Nations became Six, winning four titles - including two Grand Slams - out of nine.

COACH: Marc Lievremont. Former France flanker played it fast and loose with tactics and selection in his first Six Nations last year, throwing in babes-in-arms with predictably mixed results. More consistent selection in the autumn though suggests a more serious title tilt this time.

CAPTAIN: Lionel Nallet. Similar to Borthwick in that he is not recognised as a top-class Test lock, yet retains the trust of his coach. Plays for unfashionable Castres, rather than one of the top French teams.

RISING STAR: Maxime Medard. At 22, the latest off the Toulouse production line of mesmerising backline runners. A brilliant counter-attacker who can play full-back, wing or centre. Won his first three caps in the autumn; could light up the Six Nations.

X-FACTOR MATERIAL: Sebastien Chabal, "l'homme des cavernes" (The Caveman), became a cult hero during the 2007 World Cup with his flowing locks, unruly beard and barnstorming style. Likes the quiet life off the field, but could bring a Captain Caveman-style bawl to the party.

PROSPECTS: If Lievremont can settle on a half-back partnership, there is enough talent - Medard, Heymans and Malzieu in the back three, Dusautoir, Ouedraogo and Picamoles in the back row - to make them contenders. Top three despite trips to Dublin and Twickenham, and visit of Wales.

ODDS: 10/3