The maestro of the 15th century France’s Antoine Dupont returns to the Blues surrounded by eight newcomers with great potential. Something that will delight French fans as the November tests begin. Discover the details of this selection that already looks promising…
This is the event all rugby fans have been waiting for: the big return of Antoine Dupont in the XV jersey. of France. After shining in rugby sevens this summer and winning an Olympic title to boot, the Toulouse scrum-half returns to the Blues to prepare for November’s trials. News that delights French fans, especially since coach Fabien Galthié has decided to trust eight players who have never been capped before.
Antoine Dupont, the return of the playing master
His absence during the summer tour in Argentina was keenly felt. But this time Antoine Dupont will be there to lead the XV. of France in the next rounds. The 42-cap No. 9, voted best player in the world in 2021, will bring all his experience and vision to a group that needs to revive after a mixed tour.
According to a source close to the staff, Dupont looked very good in training and was eager to return to international level: “Antoine is in brilliant form. His experience from 7 this summer has helped him the most. He is ready to take on a leadership role on this young team.”
An insecure flyhalf
If the return of Dupont is excellent news, there is uncertainty about his usual partner at the hinge. In fact, Romain Ntamack is currently treating a calf injury and could miss the start of the rally. A situation that opens the door to a Dupont-Jalibert duo or the emergence of a new talent like Léo Barré or Louis Carbonel, both nominated for the first time.
Eight newcomers who are shaping the future
Beyond the Ntamack case, Fabien Galthié has decided to add no fewer than eight newcomers to his 42-man roster. Among them we find promising talents such as Bastien Chalureau on the second line, Matthias Haddad on the third line or even the three-quarter star Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Émilien Gailleton. Players with immense potential who could quickly settle into the rotation.
We wanted to give a chance to a new generation who will have to take up the legacy after the 2025 World Cup. It is important to introduce them to the international level now.
Fabien Galthié, coach of the XV. of France
The “Novembrists”, a springboard into the world
For observers, this strongly youthful line-up confirms the staff’s desire to prepare for the future with a view to the 2025 World Cup in France. By gradually incorporating new elements during testing in November, a time conducive to experiments, Galthié hopes to build a dense and efficient reservoir.
A French rugby expert reveals: “The goal is clear: identify future stars now in order to strengthen them little by little.” The tests in November will be an ideal springboard for these young talents. If they react, they will be prepared for the World Cup at home.”
Which starting eleven against Australia?
If the list of 42 players is promising, the question now is which starting player Fabien Galthié will start against Australia on November 5th. If managers like Dupont, Alldritt or Fickou seem to be established, there are still a few positions open, especially in the middle and in the third row. reaction in the coming weeks.
One thing is certain: this new version of the French group, led by their playing master Antoine Dupont and fueled by a wave of young talent, looks great. Enough to dream of new epics in blue from this fall until 2025. Fans are already impatient at the prospect of seeing the next generation of French rugby blossom!
