There is a history of rancour and recriminations between France and New Zealand and this summer's Test series promises to be red-hot
France captain Antoine Dupont has undergone surgery on his injured knee, according to French outlet l'Equipe.
Starting their season against a dangerous French team will be as hard for the All Blacks as the 2022 series against Ireland.
France head coach Fabien Galthie has said that his current team are better than the side that crashed out of the World Cup in 2023 to eventual winners South Africa.
France player ratings: France sealed the Guinness Six Nations title with a 35-16 victory over Scotland at the Stade de France, but it was not a match that went their way throughout.
On the eve of the final round of the Six Nations, France's defence coach has spelt out his plans beyond the end of the championship.
Steve Borthwick’s team are competing with France and Ireland to clinch their first title since 2020, with Scotland possessing a mathematical chance of snatching glory from under the noses of their rivals.