QUESTION: You have just walked onto the pitch at Twickenham for captain's training.

Does this temple of English rugby inspire fear?

ANSWER: "We are lucky to play in big stadiums which all have incredible stories. We know that every time we travel, the matches are complicated. Even more so here, where we haven't won since. 2005 in the Tournament. We know how difficult it will be. But we are prepared to play these kinds of matches, they are the best to play. We have played two matches here (since the beginning of the Fabien Galthié era) : one in the different context of the Autumn Nations Cup (behind closed doors), which ended in extra time with a reshuffled team but which could very well have won. The other time we ended up two points, that is played at very few things. So we know that we are capable of doing it".

Q: Are England particularly takeable this year?

A: "I'm not really sure. Two years ago, a lot of people gave us favorites and we lost. They have experienced and quality players in their squad. Even if they are not not in their best rugby, we know very well that they are great players who are capable of raising their level of play in the big moments and tomorrow (Saturday) will be a great moment for them. (...) We know that we have to win tomorrow to be able to claim victory in this Tournament after losing in Ireland".

Q: What does Marcus Smith's start at the England opener change in place of Owen Farrell?

Antoine Dupont in training at Twickenham Stadium, March 10, 2023 in London © Glyn KIRK / AFP

A: "He is a player who likes to attack the line a lot, who has qualities that we all know in duels. He is a little less in management than Farrell can be. But having a player from the Farrell's experience on the bench will also be an asset for them at the end of the match. The team's strategy does not depend on just one man. The two can blend into what is requested by the coach, the kicking, occupying, putting pressure on the opposing team... Smith also knows how to do it. He may be more dangerous in duels than Farrell, but Farrell is very strong in defense. They have different profiles ".

Statements taken at a press conference

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