First, an apology. Because we really don't like to go through this exercise. But since the very essence of our job consists of trying to be as fair as possible and therefore highlighting the good and the bad of the rugby microcosm, we wanted to raise a point completely stifled by the 5-star assessment of the French XV this fall, and the statements made here and there.
The one who saw Georges-Henri Colombe, a 140 kilo right pillar of his state, being mistreated in due form by his counterparts in the most traditional work of the post: the scrum. Mounted on the roof of the Stade de France during each scrum against the All Blacks, the Rochelais exploded like popcorn against Tamaiti Williams and his size similar to his own.
XV of France ''I had gastro, I was in bad shape'', this Tricolor in survival mode against the Blacks
When we learned that the said “GH” had been ill all week (and uncertain until kick-off) but had to fight 70 minutes of a big battle against the Blacks following the premature exit of Tatafu, we swallowed our saliva, saluting his courage.
The fact remains that a week later against Argentina, head to head with the low table (1m76 for 108kg) of the Pumas Thomas Gallo, Colombe once again showed major signs of weakness in the scrum. Sanctioned in his first test of strength (52nd minute) Friday evening, heckled in the following ones and regularly picked up or brought to the ground without revolt by the left-hander from Treviso, the right-handed tricolor (really) marked time in the exercise.
The big teddy bear must become kung-fu-panda
Crippling for the future, in a position where many elements have made a career solely on their scrum performance? The latter being by definition one of the most inexact sciences in rugby, we would swear not.
While affirming that Colombe may have incredible potential in this number 3 position, he will never be able to seriously claim to succeed Atonio without becoming more stable on the supports, tougher, meaner and more cunning when it comes to putting himself in position. bending. As impressive as it is – at times – ball in hand and scratching.
AMATEUR. + 5 divisions in the off-season: this 130kg pilachou experienced the biggest progression of the year in France
We know he's been working there for years. But after the surprise of his debut in Blue, the big teddy bear will now have to redouble his efforts to regain his ground in La Rochelle first, then avoid being further punished by the “customers” of the 6 Nations Tournament (Porter, Genge…), this time. That's 3 months to be able to talk about Kung-Fu-Panda again.
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