The 33-year-old played a huge part in helping the unfancied Les Bleus come within two points of defeating the all-conquering All Blacks.

After Philippe Saint-Andre’s appointment as Les Bleus coach might have signalled a fresh start but if the writing was on the wall for France’s old guard Bonnaire didn’t take any notice.

The 2010 Grand Slam champion was determined not to let his international career finish on a bum note and with 71 caps under his belt already Bonnaire is hungry for more.

“We didn't win and I was keen to play a final Six Nations both out of pleasure and to bow out on a good note,” he said.

"At the beginning of my international career I said 'If I reach 50 caps that will be great'. After that I said 60, 70... if I can make 75, it will be terrific.

"I have had a wonderful career, with really good moments and difficult ones as well.

"I have always posed questions of myself, I have not waited for others to ask them of me.

"I have rarely been satisfied with my performances, I think it is also that which has helped me last so long. Whatever your age, there are always things that you can improve."