Recognition for a successful debut season with the All Blacks may have come via the World Rugby Awards nomination for loose forward Wallace Sititi.
France coach Fabien Galthie believed his side's 30-29 win over the All Blacks in Paris was an important step for the side ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
France made it three successive victories over the All Blacks following a hard-fought 30-29 victory in Paris.
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson has named his All Blacks team to play France at Stade de France, Paris.
New Zealand loose forward Wallace Sititi's career faces another significant trial when the All Blacks meet France in Paris on Saturday.
A try from Will Jordan and 18 points from the boot of Damian McKenzie helped New Zealand defeat Ireland 23-13 in the Autumn Nations Series in Dublin on Friday.