With Hunt, Biarritz play their joker

Biarritz continued their revival in the Top 14 on Saturday, storming past defending champions Perpignan to rise to third in the standings.

Castres' good run at the start to the season continued as they edged Toulon 21-19 at the Stade Pierre Antoine.

They rode their luck - a late penalty for Jonny Wilkinson could have seen Toulon steal it - but ultimately were good value for the win.

Elsewhere, Clermont breezed to a bonus point win over Bayonne, Toulouse failed to get a bonus point in Montpellier despite a blistering start and Racing Metro laboured to a 17-12 win over Montauban. Bourgoin set Albi well adrift at the bottom with a 26-16 win

Recruited by Biarritz so as to replace injured Bidabé and Gobelet, Australian treizist Karmichael Hunt (22 years, 1,86 m, 92 kg) made his first training with the side this Tuesday. He evokes his career path and the reasons why he got involved in the BO

M.O - You are a star of Rugby League in Australia…

Karemichael HUNT: Perhaps. It is what people say…

MO : Why did you decide to join Biarritz?

K.H. : I had finished my season in Australia and wasn't to start again before eight months. Biarritz offered a contract to me, I said yes.

MO : It means you'll go back to Australia at the end of your commitment ?

K.H. : Yes, I will.

MO :Could you talk to us about your record?

K.H. : I was born in New Zealand, in Auckland. When I was ten, I went to Australia. Over there, I played 126 matches with Brisbane Broncos. I won the championship in 2006. I also played under the helm of Australian XIII and took part each year to the "State of Origin" (yearly series of three matches between State of Queensland Maroons and that of South New Wales ; one of the most sporting events and media in Australia).

MO :Do you feel apprehensive about your moving from to Rugby Union ?

K.H. : I don't because I played in Rugby Union during two years when I was at the University. I thus know the rules.

MO :What kind of skills can you bring to the team?

K.H. : My professionalism. The six years I spent in National Rugby League enabled me to gain much experience. I also will try to bring my inborn skills.

MO :Which position are you about to be given?

K.H. : Anywhere in the backs. I play where I'm needed.

MO : When will you start ?

K.H. : I don't know yet. It's up to the club to decide.

MO : And what about your nicknames, which spread on the web ?

K.H. : I am called sometimes "K", the diminutive of my name Karmichael. It is easier to pronounce.

MO : Sometimes "Kamikaze", also…

K.H. : Yes. Perhaps it fits in with my way of playing. But obviously the media have got a hand in it.