DAVID BARNES
FRENCH COLUMN

Montpellier, under the new control of former Clermont and Scotland boss Vern Cotter, are generally considered to be the new hotshots of the Top 14. And, although their opponents yesterday were promoted Agen, they did nothing to damage their image as serious contenders.
Especially as, among the expensive recruits assembled by ambitious president Mohed Altrad, appeared new fly-half Aaron Cruden, still around the peak of his All Black powers.
Cruden was behind most of the menace that helped Montpellier beat Agen 48-19, orchestrating perfectly through boot and hand ...