Steve Hansen wary of France’s shock habit

 
Nik Simon7 June 2013

France picked up the wooden spoon in the Six Nations but All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has warned his players not to underestimate them at Eden Park tomorrow.

Philippe Saint-Andre’s team have lost their last four Tests against New Zealand but Hansen is fully aware of the French ability to cause a shock. Hansen (below) was assistant All Blacks coach when they were knocked out of the 2007 World Cup by a written-off French team.

“There’s one thing I’ve learned about the French in 13 years of international coaching and that is if you don’t respect them they’ll thump you,” said Hansen. “They’ve got the ability to be one of the best teams in the world, if they turn up.”

Hansen is aware of France’s strength in the forwards and New Zealand will have to front-up to get back to winning ways.

“Philippe [Saint-Andre] has taken them back to the French old style, of ‘play what’s in front of you’ and enjoy your rugby,” added Hansen. “They’ve certainly got a monster forward pack so we’re looking forward to the challenge.”

Live on Sky Sports 2, 8.35am

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