Matfield wary of ‘physical’ French

SOUTH AFRICA vice-captain Victor Matfield has warned his side that the battle of the breakdown will be crucial when they host France in Cape Town today (1pm Irish time).

The Springboks host the Six Nations champions at Newlands on the back of their 34-31 win against Wales in Cardiff last weekend, and Bulls second row Matfield is expecting another stern examination.

“This is a very big game,” he said. “The French are up there with the leading teams in the world and while we’ve not been very successful against them of late, it’s nice to play them in South Africa for a change. Our preparation has been good and we’re looking forward to the Test.