If I had to take a bet I could be tempted to say that England are the favourites as they reached the World Cup final, but the French are not bad either after winning three of the last four tournaments. Particular attention should also be paid to Wales, who will be seeking revenge after their disappointing performance in France and could be the tournament outsiders.

It is true that France won't have much time to prepare before their first clash with Scotland. One week to try to create consistence within the team is short. But at the same time, there are a lot of new and young talents in the squad, and they will all be eager to show their potential. This tournament is a great opportunity for them to secure a place with Les Bleus in the long term.

Meanwhile, Sébastien Chabal, who plays with Sale, has not been named in the squad but he has fantastic qualities and I am sure he will be back with the French national team very soon. On the other hand one of my other players, Lionel Faure, has been selected and will be given the chance to make his international debut. I am very happy for him. That's the way international rugby goes.

As far as the French game and tactics are concerned, the coaches have announced they will push the players to take risks and play a more aggressive game, and I find this very exciting. Bernard Laporte had built up a very disciplined and organised side so we should bare that in mind but the prospect of displaying a more attacking game is interesting.

I can't wait to be in Edinburgh on Sunday to see what is going to happen. But the most important for the players will definitely be to leave the pitch with no regrets or frustration.