France host Fiji in Bordeaux on Saturday (9.10pm) with enormous pressure on their shoulders. Heavily beaten by the Springboks, France must pull themselves together against an opponent judged to be weaker.

Yes, but these Fijians are also at a turning point in their history. Why? Because this generation, built around the likes of Ikanivere, Mata, Muntz, Tuisova, Wainiqolo and Maqala, is one of the strongest the national side has ever known.

If this group cannot get past the pool stage at the next World Cup, in Australia in 2027, will they ever manage it? Nothing is less certain. Reinforced by an Australian head coach in Michael Byrne and by former All Black Aaron Mauger, Fiji may be able to iron out what has always stopped them from crossing over into international rugby’s top table.

A lightweight bench?

These men from the Pacific are as strong as ever in the upright game, both in contact and in evasion. Just imagine: Peceli Yato (Perpignan), Vinaya Habosi (Racing 92), Peniasi Dakuwaqa (Stade Français) and Semi Radradra are not even there. A specimen like Timoci Tavatavanawai has opted for the All Blacks. Behind, on the other hand, Wainiqolo, Rayasi, Ravouvou, Tuisova and Ravutaumada all line up together against France.

The only question mark is the half-back pairing. Kuruvoli and Muntz have earned their places. The latter, playing at fly-half for Provence, may just be the fly-half the Flying Fijians have missed so badly since Nicky Little stopped. Up front, the solid Nasilasila, Mayanavanua, Mata and Mawi are all there. It is thick-set. Abrasive. Sometimes on the edge.

But these Fijians have improved, notably at the maul, as shown by what they produced against England. They are still indisciplined, sometimes clumsy, with inconsistencies in their strategy. In the end, a Fijian let loose is surely the most dangerous of all… There will be errors, yes, but this team can more than compete with France. The bench, however, can weaken the Pacific side.

You will have gathered that Saturday’s test match is anything but friendly. Fiji have a lot riding on it, on this road that will take them to the 2027 World Cup. They need this kind of “benchmark” win. And when you look at the team sheet, the Flying Fijians have arguments to put forward.