Get ready for a thrilling rugby showdown as France takes on the mighty Springboks at the Stade de France! But here's a twist: there's a surprising absence on the French team sheet that has everyone talking.
Gael Fickou, the captain extraordinaire, leads the charge once more, but who will fill the scrum-half role?
With Antoine Dupont injured, the spotlight turns to Nolann Le Garrec, who steps into the No.9 jersey. Fickou, who previously captained France's experimental squad in New Zealand, retains his leadership despite the return of several star players.
The big question was whether Maxime Lucu, Dupont's usual deputy, would be fit after a thumb injury. But coach Galthie has opted for the young talent Le Garrec, with Lucu taking a bench spot.
And here's where it gets controversial...
Gregory Alldritt, who stepped up as captain for Dupont during the Six Nations, is notably absent from the squad. Alldritt's comments about the team atmosphere after La Rochelle's Top 14 victory over Racing 92 seem to have landed him in hot water. Mickaël Guillard of Lyon steps in at No.8.
But wait, there's more! Just 30 minutes before Galthie's squad announcement, South Africa's head coach Rassie Erasmus shared his predicted French lineup, and he got it spot on!
So, what do you think of these team selections? Are you surprised by the omissions? And will France's strategy pay off against the Springboks?
Let's discuss in the comments!
France's Starting XV:
- Thomas Ramos
- Damian Penaud
- Pierre-Louis Barassi
- Gaël Fickou (c)
- Louis Bielle-Biarrey
- Romain Ntamack
- Nolann Le Garrec
- Baptiste Erdocio
- Julien Marchand
- Régis Montagne
- Thibaud Flament
- Emmanuel Meafou
- Anthony Jelonch
- Paul Boudehent
- Mickaël Guillard
Replacements:
16. Guillaume Cramont
17. Jean-Baptiste Gros
18. Dorian Aldegheri
19. Romain Taofifenua
20. Hugo Auradou
21. Oscar Jegou
22. Maxime Lucu
23. Nicolas Depoortère
