6 Nations 2025 – Romain Ntamack in 10, Thomas Ramos in 15: towards a return of the “classic” for the XV of France

Is this really a surprise? Or even a strong choice? It all depends on how each person wants to analyze the subject. Facing Wales, in less than two weeks, everything suggests that Romain Ntamack will be the starting opener for the French XV. In itself, nothing surprising when we know the pedigree of the boy, in whom Fabien Galthié always maintained his confidence, even when he was away from the field. But some could legitimately ask the question of number 10, not so much in relation to the status of the latter, but rather in view of the major performances of Thomas Ramos in this position in November. Preferred over Matthieu Jalibert, which did not fail to fuel discussions at the time, the Toulouse player – in addition to his success as a scorer – largely proved Fabien Galthié and his assistants right, who appreciated his qualities as a playmaker and leader, in particular his ability to take responsibility and influence the strategy of the Blues.

Did this cast doubt on the French staff when discussing the composition that will be lined up for the opening of the 6 Nations Tournament? From what we know, as usual, the members of the sports management debated and this was part of the discussions. But several arguments would have quickly led to the following conclusion: barring any setbacks or changes (which should never be ruled out either), Romain Ntamack should wear the flocked chasuble of number 10 at the CNR in Marcoussis at the start of the week, when of the first training sessions in opposition to the rally, when Ramos will be at the back.

Question of guarantees, profiles and complementarity

First, and most importantly, Ntamack hasn't been in the equation for a year and a half. Forfeited for the 2023 World Cup and the 2024 Tournament due to his serious left knee injury, the person concerned gave up the last autumn tour after a tear in his right calf. This time, he is present and the coach still considers him the priority choice for his position. Question of guarantees already (he was the opener of the major success against the All Blacks in November 2021, of the grand slam in 2022 or of the demonstration at Twickenham in the 2023 Tournament), but also of profile. If Ntamack has perhaps not yet regained his full offensive potential (even if he clearly reassured on this point against Leicester), he remains an extremely secure player in terms of fundamentals, dominant in defense, excellent under high balls and capable to perfectly orchestrate the game around him.

This fuels his complementarity with Antoine Dupont at the hinge, which no longer needs to be demonstrated in club or selection. It even makes sense to extend it to the trio formed with Thomas Ramos in a tactically decisive 9-10-15 axis. Beyond the automatisms between the three Toulouse players, they are used to distributing roles (especially in the kicking game) and changing their positions when the situation requires it. Finally, if Ramos has never hidden his preference for the full-back position, his repositioning allows us to have on the field a number 15 with great international experience now, forming an XXL attack triangle with the Bordeaux Damian Penaud and Louis Bielle-Biarrey. A choice all the more relevant in the absence of Romain Buros, injured in an ankle and out of the entire competition.