Only a few days left before the end of the year. This is the moment that Planet Rugby chose pour reveal your typical team. A composition that often divides oval ball fans.
An ideal XV that will get people talking in rugby clubs, especially in France. Only two representatives of the XV of France were included on this honorary match sheet: Thomas Ramos et Antoine Dupont. The presence of the second could surprise, even annoy some. Others would undoubtedly have aligned Louis Bielle-Biarrey.
Thomas Ramos, the teacher
And Thomas Ramos appears in this selection, it is thanks to a sensational year under the colors of Stade Toulousain. A Top 14/Champions Cup doublerare versatility between positions 10 and 15, and surgical regularity at the foot convinced Planet Rugby.
According to them, Ramos outperforms players like Aphelele Fassi (South Africa) or certain All Blacks. His ability to carry Toulouse on his shoulders and to adapt to the French team is unanimously praised.
Dupont, still the best
Hard not to include Antoine Dupont in a typical team, according to our colleagues. This year again, the emblematic captain of the French XV left his mark, both at club and national level. And this, even though he did not participate in the 6 Nations at the start of the year.
In addition to the historic double with Toulouse, Dupont shone in Olympic Games with the French team at 7, winning a gold medal before returning to XV to light up the Autumn Nations Series. A leader who transcends his team and whose absence would have been incomprehensible.
A divisive selection?
With six players in the XV of the year, the Springboks largely dominate. Recognition after their world title in 2023 and impressive continuity this season. Their massive presence reflects the impact of their powerful and structured game, evidenced by the presence ofEben Etzebeth or from Pieter-Steph Du Toitframes of their pack.
Although Ramos and Dupont shine, the absence of other Blues could disappoint. Planet Rugby's choices, assumed and argued, illustrate a global vision and not focused solely on international performances. There are also only two players from the XV du Trèfle (Tadhg Beirne and Caelan Doris). A typical team which, as often, leaves room for debate. Would you have made the same choices?
