But while the Wallabies and the Pumas have spent a lot of time working together during the Rugby Championship, France will have only eight days to prepare for next Saturday’s clash with Australia.

Despite this, Papé remains confident his side can do enough to break into the top four in the world rankings ahead of the seedings for the 2015 World Cup.

He said: “This team has the ability but it’s true that Australia, and even Argentina, have been working like clubs for the last four months with the Four Nations. We will only have eight days.

“But I think we can do it. We have the mental strength to do it, but also the talent. It’s a huge challenge against Australia, who are the only team who can challenge the All Blacks. We will have to really study them this week before a big match.

“Of course I’m sad for Thierry [Dusautoir] because he is an important element of the team. He’s the leader so it’s a disappointment for us. For me there is a lot of pride and pleasure but it feels natural.”

Meanwhile Toulouse scrum-half Jean-Marc Doussain has been called up as cover for Morgan Parra who is struggling with a knock he picked up in Clermont's win over Agen on Thursday.