France upbeat ahead of Australia tests

France have arrived in Australia in a buoyant mood, dismissing criticism over the selection of their squad and predicting an upset win over the Wallabies.

The French selected a weakened squad for the two-test series because most of their players were involved in the club competition finals at home.

However, French captain Lionel Nallet said the squad was packed with quality players capable of beating the Wallabies.

"We are here to challenge the Aussie team and most of the players who are in the squad will be happy to show they are able to play at that level," he told reporters, speaking through a translator.

"I think if there's a key to the game that could give problems to Australia, it's in the forwards."

The first test will be played at Sydney's Olympic stadium on June 28 with the second match at Brisbane's Lang Park a week later.