the essential
Fabien Galthié revealed his starting XV to face New Zealand, this Saturday, November 16, at the Stade de France (9:10 p.m.). Several changes occur compared to the match against Japan (52-12).
Faced with the absences, Fabien Galthié decided and made strong decisions. This Thursday, November 14, Fabien Galthié revealed to the press the names of the men who will start Saturday's match (9:10 p.m.), against New Zealand. No real surprise compared to the probable composition announced in recent days.
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Among the strong choices, the coach decided not to keep Matthieu Jalibert, despite being in great form with UBB. Mixed fortunes for his club teammate, Romain Buros, who will have his first selection, at fullback against the All Blacks. The wings will be led by Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Gabin Villière, who is returning to the Blues, to replace injured Damian Penaud and Théo Attisogbe.
In the center, Fabien Galthié returns to Gaël Fickou, aligned alongside Yoram Moefana. As against Japan, the 100% Toulouse hinge is renewed, with Antoine Dupont and Thomas Ramos.
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As for the pack, the coach made only one change compared to the first match. Paul Boudehent replaces the injured François Cros. On the front line, Jean-Baptiste Gros and Tevita Tatafu will surround Peato Mauvaka. Behind, Thibaud Flament and Emmanuel Meafou will make up the second line. They will be supported by Paul Boudehent, Alexandre Roumat and Grégory Aldritt.
The composition of the French XV against New Zealand: Buros – Villière, Fickou, Moefana, Bielle-Biarrey – (o) Ramos, (m) Dupont (cap.) – Roumat, Alldritt, Boudehent – Meafou, Flament – Tatafu, Mauvaka, Gros.
15. Buros ; 14. Villière, 13. Fickou, 12. Moefana, 11. Bielle-Biarrey ; 10. Ramos, 9. Dupont (chap.) ; 7. Roumat, 8. Alldritt, 6. Boudehent ; 5. Meafou, 4. Flament ; 3. Tatafu, 2. Mauvaka, 1. Gros
The replacements : Marchand, Wardi, Colombe, R. Taofifenua, Guillard, Ollivon, Le Garrec, Gailleton.
