'France are definitely favourites for Rugby World Cup' - Cheslin Kolbe

South Africa winger Cheslin Kolbe feels France will be heading into the home Rugby World Cup next year as favourites.

The Les Bleus defeated Argentina, New Zealand and Georgia in autumn series last year before claiming the Six Nations title earlier in the year.

They also defeated Japan 2-0 in their summer series in July as they have climbed to the second position in the World Rugby Rankings behind Ireland, who defeated New Zealand in an away series.

“I think the French boys are definitely the favourites going into the World Cup,” Kolbe told Canal+.

“Particularly with the World Cup being in France, it will be good for them.

“It would be good for the Springboks to keep the trophy but France played really well at the Six Nations".

Meanwhile, Kolbe, who joined Toulon in 2021 missed the recently concluded Rugby Championship due to a broken jaw but is expected to return for the end of the year series where they face Ireland, France, Italy and England.