French Rugby continues to move on all fronts. Between promising transfers, composition adjustments, and disciplinary decisions, here is the latest news from the Top 14 and Pro D2.
Tawera Kerr-Barlow in advanced negotiations with Montpellier
New Zealand scrum-half Dave Kerr-Barlowemblematic player of Stade Rochelaisis reportedly in talks to join the Montpellier Hérault Rugby. At 34, Kerr-Barlow could leave La Rochelle at the end of the season, the club having already anticipated his departure by recruiting Nolann Le Garrec.
This possible arrival would be a strategic response for the MHR, which is preparing to replace its current scrum half, Cobus Reinachexpected to return to South Africa. Kerr-Barlow, with his experience in the Top 14 and his 27 caps with the All Blacks, would be a major reinforcement for Montpellier, looking for stability and continuity at the number 9 position.
Thomas Ramos started in 10 with the XV of France against Japan
In a notable tactical choice, Fabien Galthié has tenure Thomas Ramos as opener for the French team's next match against Japan, in a duo with Antoine Dupont at the scrum (source: RugbyPass). Usually positioned at the back, Ramos is entrusted with the keys to the attack for a configuration which reinforces the versatility of the Blues.
This composition also provides for the first tenure of Avoid Tatafu at the pillar position, a player of Tongan origin in whom the staff has high hopes. On the wing, we will find the Bordeaux Damian Penaud et Louis Bielle-Biarreywhile the young Alexandre Roumat will obtain his first tenure in the third line, alongside executives such as Grégory Damn it et François Cros.
Return of Pierre Mignoni to Toulon after suspension canceled
Pierre Mignonicoach of Rugby Club Toulonnaiswas reinstated after his six-week suspension was overturned for “incorrectness” towards a referee. This incident dates back to mid-October, during Toulon's defeat against Clermont (19-18), where Mignoni let his frustration show visibly.
The suspension was ultimately canceled by the French Rugby Federation for a procedural defect, allowing the coach to resume his position from the next RCT match. This reintegration relieves the Var club, which hopes to regain a positive dynamic thanks to the stability brought by the return of its head coach.
Beka Gorgadze extends at Pau despite requests
The Georgian third line Becca Gorgadge made the choice of loyalty by extending its contract with the Paloise sectiondespite the interest of several other Top 14 clubs, notably Bayonnethe Racing 92 et Montpellier (source : Rugby Prime).
In a difficult context for Pau, currently 12th in the ranking, this extension strengthens the squad and demonstrates Gorgadze's commitment to the Béarn club's project. By choosing to stay in Pau, Gorgadze contributes to the stability of the team in a complicated season and marks his attachment to the club which welcomed him.
Mattéo Le Corvec leaves Toulon for Perpignan
Mattéo Le Corvecyoung third line of Rugby Club Toulonnaisshould continue his career at Perpignanthus following in the footsteps of his father, Grégory Le Corvecwhich marked the history of Usap in the 2000s (source: Rugbyrama).
Le Corvec, 23 and a former under-20 international, aspires to gain playing time with the Catalans, where he could progress further. The Catalan club, which is renewing its third line, would also be interested in the arrival of Peceli Yato from Clermont to strengthen its pack, according to information from L'Indépendant.
Investigation underway into two Dax players after a turbulent evening
In Pro D2, two players fromUS Dax are currently at the heart of an internal investigation after a party that went wrong. Jacket Naseara et Ratu Nacikaboth players of the Landes club, allegedly behaved “inappropriately” in bars in the city, probably under the influence of alcohol, the day after Dax's victory against Nice (source: Rugbyrama).
The club's leaders quickly apologized to the affected establishments and took the decision to exclude the two players from the next match against Béziers. This affair is a hard blow for Dax, who wanted to capitalize on his recent victory in Pro D2.
I grew up in a family where rugby was at all times. I was at the edge of the pitch when Castres beat Pau and joined the elite, I was in the Stade Pierre Antoine facing Gary Whetton when he did his Haka to celebrate the 1993 Brennus and I was always rocked legends of this sport. Now, it is with XV Ovalie that I intend to extend the adventure. #TeamCO
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