France Rings in Changes After Twickenham Setback
Intro
In the wake of their nail-biting defeat (25-26) against England at Twickenham two weeks prior, the French national rugby team has undergone a significant reshuffle ahead of their upcoming match against Italy in Rome on Sunday, February 23rd. Captain Antoine Dupont expressed frustration after the English loss, emphasizing the team’s accountability for their shortcomings. After careful analysis, the coaching staff has identified areas for improvement and implemented several notable changes to the XV de France roster.
Changes in the Backline
Two players who have borne the brunt of these changes are Mathieu Jalibert and Damian Penaud. Jalibert, who started at fly-half in Twickenham, has been replaced by Thomas Ramos, who will pair with his clubmate Antoine Dupont in the half-back pairing. Penaud, who has been criticized for his defensive lapses against England, has also been omitted from the starting lineup, with Théo Attissogbe taking his place on the wing.
The Bench: A New Strategy
Another significant alteration is the composition of the French bench, which now comprises seven forwards and only one back. This move represents a departure from the traditional 6-2 split, with head coach Fabien Galthié citing the need to maintain dominance in the forward pack. The decision has been influenced by South Africa’s "bomb squad" strategy, which aims to overwhelm opponents with a fresh influx of physicality.
Rome Revenge
The French team will make the trip to Rome with a point to prove, eager to avenge their disappointing draw against Italy last year. Dupont and his teammates are aware that anything less than a victory would be considered a failure. They expect a fierce battle against an "extremely combative" Italian side at the Stadio Olimpico.
Revised Starting Lineup
The revised starting lineup for the match against Italy is as follows:
- Front row: Gros, Mauvaka, Atonio
- Second row: Flament, Guillard
- Back row: Cros, Alldritt, Boudehent
- Half-backs: Dupont (capt.), Ramos
- Centers: Bielle-Biarrey, Moefana
- Wings: Barassi, Attissogbe
- Fullback: Barré
Bench
- Marchand, Baille, Aldegheri, Taofifenua, Jelonch, Roumat, Jégou, Lucu, Clément Martel
Conclusion
France’s reshuffled lineup and innovative bench strategy demonstrate the team’s determination to address their recent setbacks and reassert their dominance on the international stage. As they face off against Italy in Rome, the French will be keen to avenge their previous disappointment and prove that they remain a force to be reckoned with in the Six Nations tournament.
