The French must be fancied to fly the flag for the North

The Southern nations patiently await the arrival of their Northern foes for the internationals starting in the coming months.

World champions South Africa will be their usual abrasive selves, brimming with confidence as the planet's top dogs and employing their typical brutal style - although new coach Peter de Villiers has hinted at a more expansive style from the Springboks, which could be detrimental to their title defence success.

The All Blacks, smarting from a World Cup debacle and their biggest playing exodus in years, will still be immensely powerful, based on their recent record and the strength of their Super 14 outfits. Graham Henry has much to prove and will ensure the Men in Black are intimidating as always.

The Wallabies, having been rebuilding their engine room under methodical ex-coach John Connelly now have the master tactician Robbie Deans guiding the always intelligent Australian team. The talent moving through their ranks is at its highest level in years and they will be a difficult proposition.