11.   Meanwhile, French rugby union president Bernard Lapasset said he doubted the viability of the tournament if only four nations played and predicted a compromise.

12.   The stadium, in Saint-Denis, north of Paris, is also used by the French national rugby team.

13.   Victories over South Africa, Australia and now England has restored confidence in French rugby and coach Bernard Laporte knows his team is capable of beating anyone.

14.   French rugby boss Bernard Lapasset on Friday claimed English players were getting preferential treatment after being sent off and demanded a top-level inquiry.

15.   French rugby boss Bernard Lapasset withdrew his objections to the match on Wednesday.

16.   French rugby giants Perpignan signed Australian international fly-half Manuel Edmonds here Thursday on a three year contract from the NSW Waratahs.

17.   French rugby league lacks a few basics but hopefully will make progress with Fouroux.

18.   French rugby league team selected to face North Harbour on Tuesday in Auckland.

19.   French rugby player Jean-Michel Gonzalez is happy to be a busy hooker.

20.   French rugby union stars were not happy with the financial deal struck with French rugby federation president Bernard Lapasset on Monday according to a French newspaper here on Tuesday.