Yesterday evening, during a particularly humid high-intensity session in Marcoussis, the Rochelais did not put on the titular vest. And he didn't switch to the right side of the field either when the staff made some changes to accommodate end-of-match substitution situations.
First for Gazzotti?
The third line which should begin the street fight that the Pumas promise brings together François Cros, back after his shock against Japan, Paul Boudehent, author of three tries in the last two matches, and Charles Ollivon. The Toulonnais wore the number 8 chasuble, so long reserved for Alldritt. Since the arrival of Galthié as coach, the Rochelais has had 40 selections, including 39 starts. The only time he started on the bench was in November 2021, against… Argentina (29-20).
But this time, Alldritt should not even come into play. During training on Tuesday evening, it was Alexandre Roumat, who started in both matches, who played the role of replacement in the third line position. The young UBB player Marko Gazzotti also played in a few sequences, and could win his first cap if the staff opted again for a 6-2 bench.
Deemed unconvincing, Alldritt's performances against Japan and New Zealand (30-29) therefore earned him this first big break in his international career. His partner from Stade Rochelais, Uini Atonio, has more reasons to smile. Discomforted in his calf in recent weeks, the right pillar is fit again and should start in place of Tevita Tatafu, injured against the Blacks.
