XV de France: Newcomers Tatafu, Brennan, Gazotti, and Costes Expected on the List for the Autumn Tour
With each squad announcement, the suspense builds around who might be introduced to the charms of the National Rugby Center, whether it’s as the autumn leaves fall or in the midst of winter when the trees stand bare under a low ceiling of clouds. As we look ahead to the upcoming Rugby World Cup in Australia, head coach Fabien Galthié is likely to have some surprises up his sleeve, even though he will likely stick to his core group of “premium” players as has been the trend since he took charge. Who will make a breakthrough this time?
Return of the Veterans
Players such as Wardi, Gros, Mauvaka, Marchand, Atonio, Colombe, Flament, Meafou, Romain Taofifenua, Cros, Boudehent, Alldritt, Ollivon, Jelonch, Dupont, Le Garrec, Lucu, Ramos, Jalibert, Danty, Fickou, Bielle-Biarrey, Penaud, and Barré form the core of the French squad. The return of Antoine Dupont to the team, and likely as captain, is anticipated, whereas Romain Ntamack’s availability remains uncertain due to a calf injury sustained ten days ago against Clermont. The inclusion of Yoram Moefana, pending a disciplinary hearing following his red card in the recent match against La Rochelle, is still undecided.
Rising Stars of 2024
Several players have showcased their talent both in recent months and during the match against Argentina. Toulouse’s Alexandre Roumat and Lyon’s lock Mickaël Guillard have been standout performers, accompanied by emerging talents like Nouchi, Berdeu, Frisch, and Attisogbe who have been impressing in the early stages of the Top 14 season. They are expected to join experienced players like Sébastien Taofifenua, Emilien Gailleton, and Matthis Lebel in the extended squad. With Bourgarit sidelined due to injury, the competition for the third hooker position behind the two Toulouse players will be between Castrais Barlot and Bordeaux’s Lamothe.
New Faces at Marcoussis?
Similar to Emmanuel Meafou before him, the coaching staff has been buzzing about Bayonne’s prop Tevita Tatafu. This powerful and stocky right prop, who has been wreaking havoc in the Top 14 defenses for months, is now eligible for selection and is likely to earn a spot in the squad. Alongside him, the impressive club performances of Toulouse’s Joshua Brennan and Bordeaux’s Marko Gazzoti may herald a new era of youthful talent for the French team, both having emerged from the national pathways. Likewise, Pierre Bochaton, a versatile back-rower like Brennan, may find himself rewarded for his outstanding performances last season. Will Toulouse’s Paul Costes also be recognized for his stellar form?
Disappointed Prospects
The competition for the scrum-half position in France seems intense. Beyond Dupont and Le Garrec, Maxime Lucu faces strong contenders like Couilloud, Serin, and Jauneau who have been excelling at the club level. Lucu holds the edge with his experience, international exposure, and captaincy role at UBB. However, at almost 32 years old, he is well aware of the looming competition. As for Cameron Woki, after a lackluster performance against Italy led to his early exit from the squad during the Six Nations, his struggle to regain his place in the team seems evident, especially with Racing’s lackluster start to the season.
This narrative of the evolving French squad reflects the blend of experienced stalwarts and promising newcomers striving to make their mark in international rugby, setting the stage for an intriguing autumn tour and beyond.