XV of France – The reasons for Paul Boudehent's tenure in third row against the All Blacks

Don't think that Paul Boudehent is only starting against New Zealand solely because of François Cros' withdrawal. That would lead you astray. The La Rochelle third row is currently one of the players, in terms of data, who responds most favorably to the requirements of the international level. His case also posed a cruel dilemma ahead of the match against Japan. In the privacy of the staff, the discussions were lively, some preaching for the power of Rochelais to the detriment of Toulouse Alexandre Roumat. Finally, the coach made his decision. Fabien Galthié favored, in the perspective of honing his more offensive game than in the past, the ability of the Toulouse player to bring the ball to life rather than the penetration force of Boudehent.

His tenure envisaged even before Cros's withdrawal

And what about the internal discussions the day after the victory over Japan to integrate or not the maritime flanker into the starting XV? And this, well before François Cros’s package. The day before, entering the pitch at the half-hour mark, Boudehent confirmed all the good things the staff thought of him. His physical density and power worked wonders. He pushed the Japanese back on almost every impact, not allowing them to gain the advantage line. He finished the match with 19 tackles and no failures, a sign of an almost perfect match, punctuated by a strong try. The question of his presence at the kick-off against the Blacks therefore really arose even before Cros's withdrawal. However, for this, it would then have been necessary to remove former captain Grégory Alldritt. A case of conscience for the coach.

Last Tuesday, exit François Cros, the fault of a concussion. The solution did not take long to find for Galthié. “Paul is someone who has been participating in our various competitions for some time now, justifies William Servat, one of the deputies. He joined the group with his human qualities, qualities as a player. At the opening of the World Cup, he made a magnificent debut against New Zealand. He asserts himself from match to match. He brings character and that’s an important factor in a Rugby team.” Above all, his profile responds positively to the challenge that awaits the Blues. And for good reason. “Blacks are not Japan, our consultant Xavier Garbajosa said ironically on Monday in these columns. In combat, they are “tough”. Really, I insist. In the two matches I commented on for BeIN SPORTS, I didn't see them give away a single easy ball.” And to add: “In the engagement, they raised their level. It shows in the rucks, in the counter-rucks, in defense… They are much harder, rougher. In these last two matches against England and Ireland , we didn't enjoy the game offered, but then, in the fight, it stings.” That’s good, Paul Boudehent loves it.