Pelous will follow in the footsteps of Englands Jason Leonard (114 caps), fellow Frenchman Philippe Sella (111), and Australian duo George Gregan (106) and David Campese (101) in reaching three figures when he runs out against Ireland at Lansdowne Road on Saturday.

The 31-year-old Toulouse ace admits it will be a special occasion for him on Saturday but he is determined that reaching the hundred club doesnt signal the beginning of the end for his France career.

One hundred caps is symbolic but the most important thing is the fact that I still want to play, he said.

Feelings are very important. I know I am not so young and one day, I will stop - but it will not be tomorrow. I do not think to the future.

I havent changed. When you play rugby, your dream is to be in the France team, added Pelous.

But the France skipper admitted his milestone on Saturday comes second to how France do on the pitch, adding: My thoughts are at Lansdowne Road and the win I hope.

The match is crucial to Frances hopes of retaining their RBS 6 Nations title following their 24-18 home defeat to Wales last time out.

That left France in third spot in the standings, behind Ireland and Wales who have both picked up three wins out of three so far.