Serge of Adrenaline

SERGE BETSEN has a scented candle in his hand.

“When this candle melts,” he’s saying, “You don’t get wax, oil runs off instead. That oil can be used in a massage, so all the senses are involved. It’s a wonderful ambiance.”

He nods and puts the candle back carefully on a shelf before pointing up the stairs, past the manicure rooms, so up we go. And yes, it is slightly disconcerting to have one of the most aggressive flankers in world rugby extol the virtues of sandalwood and eucalyptus as soothing fragrances.