And Harinordoquy admits the Basques will have a better idea of where they stand after taking on the reigning champions, who have also won two from two so far.

He said: “Our start to the season rewards all the hard work we have done over the summer. We can’t get carried away but it is nice to have picked up as many points in two matches as we did in ten last season.

“Training becomes easier when everyone is up for it. But we have to be careful not to relax too much, there is still a lot of work to be done. There are areas where we are playing well but there are others which need work.

"We are a long way from producing a perfect performance. We will have to be better against Toulouse, that will be a real test of where we are.”

What has most impressed Harinordoquy this season has been the displays of the young players.

In a team which has generally relied on an experienced core to the side several youngsters have stepped up this season, with a half-back combination of 21-year-olds Yann Lesgourgues and Jean-Pascal Barraque starting the victory over Agen.

Harinordoquy added: “They won’t be young forever. And they have been here for a few seasons now but they are now getting more and more game time. Last year was very difficult for them but they have grown.

“There is still work to be done to fully mature but you sense blokes who are strong mentally. Jean-Pascal Barraque doesn’t panic when he is called upon.

“For the moment everything is going well but we remain cautious. That can quickly change.”