The heavy artillery is out. Fabien Galthié confirmed this Thursday the presence of the majority of the executives of the XV of France in the starting composition, for the second match of preparation for the World Cup of the Blues. Captain Antoine Dupont is back, like Romain Ntamack or Charles Ollivon, for the reception of Scotland, Saturday in Saint-Etienne (9:05 p.m.).
In what looks like a “type XV”, there are a few exceptions: Paul Boudehent in the third row, Dorian Aldegheri in the right pillar, even Cameron Woki in the second slat. The La Rochelle flanker honored his first cape last Saturday, during the setback against the Scots at Murrayfield (25-21). He is probably playing big with a view to integrating the list of 33 players selected for the World Cup.
Paul Boudehent (XV of France) during his first selection, in Scotland – 05/08/2023
Credit: Getty Images
Boudehent’s opportunity
“[Boudehent] met our expectations on his profile and what he had to do, both defensively and offensivelyexplained Galthié at a press conference. He recovered very well, François Cros being arrested, it seemed interesting to me to keep him to seek a balance with Charles Ollivon and Grégory Alldritt. ” The tricolor coach added that he could play in the center, if necessary.
Louis Bielle-Biarrey (France) against Scotland, Saturday August 5, 2023.
Credit: Imago
Bielle-Biarrey on the bench, not Gailleton
In the second line, the physical glitches of Paul Willemse and Romain Taofifenua (more worrying for the latter) lead the staff of the Blues to form a Cameron Woki – Thibaud Flament team. The Toulousain will be responsible for occupying the right side, and therefore a great responsibility in the scrum. In front of him, Dorian Aldegheri replaces the usual holder Uini Atonio, for reasons of “preparation and management.”
On the bench, return to a 6-2 organization (six forwards, two three-quarters or hinge players). We note the presence of Louis Bielle-Biarrey, author of a test during his first selection in Scotland, at the heart of a then reshuffled team. Emilien Gailleton, third novice launched a week ago, is not in the 23.
The composition of the XV of France against Scotland:
Holders : Ramos – Penaud, Fickou, Danty, Villière – Ntamack, Dupont (captain) – Alldritt, Ollivon, Boudehent – Flament, Woki – Aldegheri, Marchand, Baille.
Substitutes : Bourgarit, Gros, Atonio, Verhaeghe, Chalureau, Macalou, Lucu, Bielle-Biarrey.