Castres Olympique has revealed its group to face Stade Toulousain during the 5th day of Top 14. The derby, scheduled for this Saturday at 9:05 p.m. at the Pierre Fabre stadium, promises to be electric. The Castres have called up no less than 31 players for this crucial meeting.
A reinforced front pack
The list of forwards selected by the Castres staff is impressive. We find there 18 playersa sign that the emphasis will be placed on the power of the pack. Names that stand out include: Walcker, Tichit et Guerois on the front line, Nakarawa et Vanverberghe in the second line, as well as Babillot et Slap in the third line.
This density of forwards suggests a strategy focused on conquest and physical combat against the Toulouse residents. Castres Olympique seems to want to impose its forward play to counter the speed and technique of the opposing backs.
A high-tension derby
The context of this match is special. Castres is still waiting for Toulouse for this derby. The Tarnais will not deviate from this tradition against their regional rival. For their part, the Toulouse residents arrive with the desire to redeem themselves after their surprise defeat at home against Bordeaux-Bègles.
The atmosphere promises to be lively at the Pierre Fabre stadium. The Castres supporters will be the 16th man in their team to push the “Bleu et Blanc” to victory in this always highly anticipated derby.
Careful preparation
By calling a larger group of 31 players, the Castres staff gives themselves all possible tactical options. This approach allows us to maintain suspense over the final composition and to adapt to possible last-minute physical glitches.
The preparation for this shock was undoubtedly intensive this week. The Castres know the importance of getting off to a good start in this block of matches which promises to be decisive for the rest of their season in the Top 14.
The kickoff for this Castres-Toulouse will be given on Saturday at 9:05 p.m. A match that promises to be intense and contested between two teams who know each other by heart.
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