France hailed by Henry

ALL BLACKS coach Graham Henry has hailed France as the northern hemisphere’s best team ahead of back-to-back Tests in Lyon and Paris.

The New Zealanders left London yesterday after completing a ruthless demolition job on world champions England at Twickenham.

Their 41-20 triumph condemned England to a record home defeat, eclipsing their 18-point loss against South Africa nine years ago, and underlined why the All Blacks are favourites for next year’s World Cup.

Henry, though, is braced for two fierce encounters with the French on home soil in games that could provide 2007 World Cup final dress rehearsals.

“France are the best team in the northern hemisphere,” said Henry. “They are the Six Nations champions and they have been waiting for us for a couple of years.”

Henry could make up to a dozen changes for the Lyon clash next Saturday as he continues with his squad rotation policy, although possible starters Nick Evans and Neemia Tialata are both battling injuries and face fitness tests later this week.

If Otago fly-half Evans, does not regain full fitness in time then Dan Carter will probably remain in the number 10 shirt.

All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, prop Carl Hayman and wing Rico Gear could also be retained following the Twickenham triumph as New Zealand target a 22nd win from their last 24 Tests.