Wallace Sititi Prepares for Ultimate Test as All Blacks Face France in Paris

Rising loose forward Wallace Sititi's career faces another significant trial when the All Blacks meet France in Paris on Sunday [NZT].

Since making his debut against Fiji, Sititi, in his seven Tests, has become an integral part of the All Blacks' pack and has played every Test since.

While the Paris game will be the 14th Test of the season for the side, he said their motivation was generated by their tightness and accountability to one another.

"We have fun when it's time to have fun and that's important within a quality side and within a high performance environment. We've grown a lot together."

Having shifted between blindside and No8, he said both had core roles at scrums and lineouts, but otherwise, it was about keeping the game simple, carrying and tackling hard and playing the game the right way.

"The thing about the loose forwards is you've got to be able to do the tight stuff and be able to play out wide as well. As a loosies group, we've all focused on being able to do both and wherever we're required, we make sure we do it to the best of our ability."

He confirmed his relationship with Ardie Savea and the similarities they felt.

"He's somebody I'm comfortable talking with and it could be about rugby, it could be stuff in life. He has that leadership sort of approach that people can relate to."

Sititi said not having former captain Sam Cane alongside him would be a significant loss.

"He holds a lot of respect in our team; he's a strong figure in our team and our country. Not having him out there will be a big loss for us in terms of leadership and experience.

"It's something we're going to have to deal with and we'll try our best to do him justice in his absence."

Having worked with Cane at the Chiefs, Sititi said he was easy to get along with and was someone you gravitated towards and followed.

"He's a good person first and foremost and his leadership is top notch."

Assistant coach Scott Hansen said the side has been freshened by players coming from the All Blacks XV.

Having a third consecutive top-tier Test requires building the side's energy and getting the focus back on their game.

"It's a massive occasion and challenge here in Paris against an outstanding team. We will build our week and embrace the challenge.

"We've grown our game, the continuity in our game, and we're a lot more confident in where we are as a group."

Hansen, whose playing background was at halfback, said French halfback ace Antoine du Pont was a pleasure to watch.

"He plays with great passion and is a great leader. With his skill set and power, he's a phenomenal player and one I've watched for many years and enjoyed watching as a rugby lover. He's one of the greatest.

Hansen said the young All Blacks halfbacks were growing their game on the tour.

"They'll be inspired to play against the master, so they'll learn from that."

France's win over Japan over the weekend showed their ability to apply pressure through their set piece and their control in creating their attack in the right areas of the field.

"Japan were brave against France, but the French physicality and flair was too much for them in the end."