Jo Maso began his playing days in Rugby League, following in the footsteps of his father Jep, who was a French international in the 13-man code. 

After switching to union in his teens, Maso went on to achieve five Grand Slams, one as a player in 1968 – the first time France achieved the clean sweep – and four as Les Bleus’ long-serving team manager in 1997, 1998, 2002 and 2004. He also appeared in four Rugby World Cups in this role before standing down after the 2011 tournament.

Maso was the personification of French flair at centre or fly-half. He won 25 caps for his country in a seven-year period from 1966-73, scoring four tries, two of them coming at Ballymore in Brisbane when France beat Australia 16-15 on their 1973 tour. He also made three appearances for the Barbarians.