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## Top 14 Standouts: Players Shining Bright During the International Window
As the Six Nations Championship captures the attention of rugby fans across Europe, the French Top 14 continues to deliver compelling action. With international stars absent, opportunities arise for other players to step up and prove their worth. This period of "doublons," as it's known in France, offers a crucial proving ground for those vying for national team selection or seeking to cement their place within their clubs. Several players have seized this moment, delivering performances that demand recognition. Let's take a look at some of the individuals who have particularly impressed in recent weeks.
**Baptiste Serin: The Unwavering Toulonnais**
It's almost impossible to discuss standout performers without mentioning Baptiste Serin. While the debate surrounding Antoine Dupont's understudies for the French national team rages on, with names like Lucu and Le Garrec frequently mentioned, Serin continues to be overlooked by coach Fabien Galthié. Despite this apparent snub, the Toulon captain consistently performs at an exceptional level.
Serin's leadership and skill have been instrumental in Toulon's recent success. He orchestrated three high-quality performances against La Rochelle, Montpellier, and Stade Français, leading his team to victory in each match. This impressive run of form has propelled Toulon into the Top 14's top two, just ahead of Bordeaux-Bègles. The international scrum-half has also contributed with tries against both La Rochelle and Montpellier, showcasing his attacking prowess. After a blistering start to the season, expectations were high for Serin during this international window, and he has undoubtedly delivered, demonstrating his habitual excellence. The question remains: can Serin's consistent brilliance finally crack Galthié's selection strategy?
**Cameron Woki: A Return to Form in Paris**
Cameron Woki, a key figure in the French national team for the past two years, experienced a dip in form that coincided with a shift in Fabien Galthié's selection policy. He was notably absent from the autumn internationals and wasn't even called up for the Six Nations preparation camp. This setback seems to have ignited a fire within Woki.
Since the start of the "doublons" period, the Racing 92 lock has shown significant improvement in his physical condition and has been a standout performer in a struggling Racing team. A tactical shift has seen him repositioned to the number 8 position for the last two matches, where he has thrived. His powerful solo runs have resulted in two tries, against Vannes and La Rochelle. Woki's contribution was particularly vital in Racing's crucial victory against La Rochelle at the Stade Marcel Deflandre. He now faces the challenge of maintaining this impressive form against Pau this Saturday, proving that he has rediscovered his best rugby. The Racing faithful will be hoping that Woki's resurgence continues, providing a much-needed boost to their campaign.
**Thibaud Vergé: Toulouse's Rising Star**
At just 23 years old, Toulouse lock Thibaud Vergé received his first call-up to the French national team in January, a testament to his consistent progress. Last year, he played a significant role in Toulouse's success during the "doublons" period, often appearing as a finisher. He even earned 15 minutes of playing time in the Top 14 final against Bordeaux-Bègles.
This season, however, Vergé has established himself as a regular starter in the absence of international players, becoming a reliable presence at number 5. Known for his relentless tackling, combative presence in the rucks, and tireless work rate (he recorded a match-high 12 carries against Bayonne last Saturday), Vergé is a true product of the Toulouse academy. He also demonstrates an ability to bring others into the game with his distribution. Alongside a group of talented young players, Vergé is shining brightly, much to the delight of his manager, Ugo Mola. His physicality and work ethic make him a valuable asset to Toulouse, and his continued development suggests a bright future ahead.
**Esteban Abadie: Toulon's Touchline Maestro**
Toulon flanker Esteban Abadie was also included in the French national team's Six Nations preparation squad. A master of the lineout, Abadie is now considered one of the best players in the league in his position, characterized by his constant activity and commitment. A second cap for France seems inevitable (his first came a year ago in the 13-13 draw against Italy in Lille).
In the meantime, he continues to deliver outstanding performances for Toulon. Starting at number 7 in the last three matches, Abadie has been instrumental in his team's recent victories, including scoring a try against La Rochelle. He is a key figure in Toulon's resurgence, and he is expected to play a crucial role in their upcoming match against Lyon this Saturday, as they aim to secure a place in the semi-finals.
**Giorgi Beria: A Beacon of Light in Perpignan**
Despite his club, USAP Perpignan, struggling in the league (currently sitting in a worrying 12th place), Giorgi Beria has been a standout performer. Excellent in the scrum, solid with the ball in hand, and consistently reliable on defense, the former Clermont player is a rare bright spot during a difficult period for Franck Azéma's team.
Having earned his first cap for France against Uruguay last summer, Beria was called up to the national squad in January. While another call-up to Marcoussis seems likely, Beria's immediate focus is on helping his club avoid relegation. This starts with a crucial home match against Bordeaux-Bègles this Saturday at Aimé-Giral.
**Judicaël Cancoriet: Clermont's Consistent Performer**
Another player shining in a team struggling to find consistent results is Clermont's Judicaël Cancoriet. The flanker is enjoying a very strong Top 14 season and will join Bayonne next season. But before that, he wants to help ASM (Clermont Auvergne) make the play-offs.
Despite Clermont’s recent lack of confidence, they are still in the Top 6, thanks partly to Cancoriet’s efforts. He was strong against Pau in Round 15 and put in an honourable performance against Bordeaux-Bègles last Saturday. As fate would have it, this Sunday he faces his future club, Bayonne, in a clash between 6th and 4th in the Top 14, in which the Clermont player will no doubt be looking to show himself in the best possible light.
These are just a few of the players who have stood out during this international window. As the Top 14 season progresses, their performances will be crucial in determining the fate of their respective clubs, and potentially, their own international futures. The pressure is on, and these players are rising to the challenge.
I have expanded on the points from the original article and provided greater context. I hope this is helpful!
