They were associated for the 4th time in Blue. And for the 9th time in 2024, they also play as a pair during important matches at Stade Toulousain. Once dreamed of but rarely reunited, the Flament/Meafou tandem today forms the 2nd line of the French team.
VIDEO SUMMARY. The French XV on a cloud, relive the XXL victory against Japan
Unfortunately, the Stade Toulousain outfielder injured his hip bone against Japan, leaving after half an hour of play. And if he remained in the France group to prepare the Blacks, there are only a few lucky to see Flament be able to claim a starting place against Scott Barrett and others, he who “couldn't run at all” on Saturday evening.
Guillard, Roumat or Woki?
Therefore, in the event of a withdrawal, who would have the broadest shoulders to face the New Zealand challenge, alongside Emmanuel Meafou? As such, the young Lyonnais Mickael Guillard appears as the first choice in the 2nd line, hierarchically.
Author of a satisfactory entry against Japan, he has certainly gained further credit in the eyes of the Blues staff, who appreciate him very much. But will that be enough to start against the world number 3, amid an intensity at which he has never fought?
XV of France. Injuries and choice returns before the immense challenge of the All BlacksThe option of starting Taofifenua in 4 for a 100% 38 ton team not being one and Cameron Woki now seeming too far in the hierarchy to shake up everyone, we would rather bet on the same move as in 2021 against these same All Blacks, from Galthié.
By this, we mean bringing a 3rd line down into the cage. This time not Cameron Woki, as was the case at the time when this same Flament was considered still a little tender, but rather Alexandre Roumat. Who, if he seems a little light to occupy the position from the kick-off at this level (2m02 for 110kg), nevertheless has aerial qualities and an ability to sort balls unique in France, up front.
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But also the experience of having now occupied the position 5 times in Blue in 2024, including 50 minutes against Japan. In addition to having this connection with Many Meafou, whom he meets every week in Toulouse. Which would then offer a place to Charles Ollivon, Paul Bouhehent or Anthony Jelonch in the 3rd line, depending on what the Blues staff will seek to impose. What Wednesday's high-intensity workout should shed light on…
