Alldritt Leads France’s Charge Against Fiji Following South Africa Defeat
France’s rugby team is preparing to face Fiji after a disappointing loss to South Africa. This pivotal match takes place on Saturday in Bordeaux. Gregory Alldritt has stepped up as the captain, replacing Antoine Dupont, who is sidelined with a severe knee injury.
Alldritt Takes the Lead Following South Africa Loss
Alldritt, a back-rower from La Rochelle, was previously a travelling reserve in the match against South Africa, which ended 32-17 in their favor. His involvement comes due to an injury suffered by Mickael Guillard during the same match. Alldritt’s experience is invaluable as he also led France to the Six Nations title earlier this year.
Squad Changes and Strategy
Coach Fabien Galthie announced that Alldritt is one of six changes to the squad. Other notable substitutions include:
- Nicolas Depoortere replaces Gael Fickou
- Maxime Lucu comes in for Nolann Le Garrec at scrum-half
- Oscar Jegou is selected over Paul Boudehent
- Jean-Baptiste Gros takes the place of Baptiste Erdocio
The French team has faced criticism for their form, having trained for only two weeks together prior to the match against South Africa. Galthie acknowledged their preparation challenges, stating they had just five training sessions since their last game in March.
Looking Ahead: A Two-Year Vision
Galthie emphasized a long-term strategy for the team, aiming for the World Cup in 2027 and the upcoming Six Nations tournaments. The plan includes developing a deeper squad with multiple players for each position. “The changes were planned even before South Africa,” Galthie noted, highlighting their objective to rotate players effectively.
In a late announcement, lock Emmanuel Meafou was ruled out of the match. Veteran Romain Taofifenua will fill the gap, while uncapped 26-year-old Jimi Maximin may make his debut from the substitutes’ bench.
France’s Match Strategy Against Fiji
As France prepares for this fiercely competitive match against the Pacific Islanders, Alldritt’s leadership will be crucial. His experience and tactical understanding could establish a strong foundation for the team to bounce back and achieve success.
France’s starting lineup includes:
- Thomas Ramos
- Damian Penaud
- Pierre-Louis Barassi
- Nicolas Depoortere
- Louis Bielle-Biarrey
- Romain Ntamack
- Maxime Lucu
- Gregory Alldritt (captain)
- Anthony Jelonch
- Oscar Jegou
- Romain Taofifenua
- Charles Ollivon
- Regis Montagne
- Julien Marchand
- Jean-Baptiste Gros
Overall, Alldritt’s leadership and a newly structured team approach will be pivotal as France looks to recover from their recent defeat and perform strongly against Fiji.
