The South African-born 31-year-old has had plenty of opportunity to view Europe’s top clubs at first hand, with the 2020/21 campaign being his third in the continent’s top flight.

“Well, it’s the best of Europe - the best of Europe competing to be the best team and I think some of the best in the world, so maybe the best club side in the world,” he commented. “The best club sides in the world trying to be the best side.”

Marais had little knowledge of Europe’s elite competition prior to his move from South Africa in 2013, but quickly realised its significance after arriving at Bordeaux-Bègles.

“You never see it, you never even hear about it, but you come here and it’s everything,” he said. “So, that was pretty cool for me to see.”

The former Sharks forward, who now has 23 European appearances to his name, revealed that his first recollection of Europe’s leading club tournament was the 2013/14 season, when RC Toulon lifted the trophy for the second year in a row.

“For me, the first memories I really have was Jonny Wilkinson from Toulon and how they just demolished [opponents] and how good they were,” he said. “And I just thought ‘Wow, what an amazing competition’ and how big it was.”

Bordeaux-Bègles have certainly made a great start in their bid to win the trophy for the first time. They currently sit third in Pool A after beating Northampton Saints (16-12) and Dragons (47-8) in their opening two games.

Marais went on to give an insight into the UBB squad:

Who’s the hardest trainer in the camp?

“Mahamadou Diaby.”

Who’s the strongest?

“It’s a race between the two tighthead props - Lekso Kaulashvili and Ben Tameifuna.”

Who’s the quickest?

“I think Pablo [Uberti] just clocked the highest game speed. I think he did 35kph, a club record or something. Pablo’s very quick.”

Who’s going to be a future coach?

“Probably Clém, Clément Maynadier, the hooker.”

Who’s the most skilful?

“Matthieu [Jalibert]. [He has] just crazy natural skill. And Ben Tameifuna - a tighthead prop who can slot penalties from the halfway line. It’s not bad for a tighthead.”

Finally, who’s got the best banter?

“Nans [Ducuing] is by far the funniest guy I’ve ever met in my life.”

Bordeaux-Bègles lock Jandré Marais believes the Heineken Champions Cup winners may be able to call themselves the best club side in the world, so high is the standard.