Antoine Dupont makes a triumphant return to lead the French national rugby team as they gear up to face Ireland in the highly anticipated opener of the Guinness Six Nations on Thursday evening in Paris. His comeback is particularly noteworthy, as he has been sidelined since suffering a serious ACL injury in his right knee during a memorable match against Ireland last March, where France emerged victorious with a score of 42-27.
In a surprising move that raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike, head coach Fabien Galthie has decided to omit both center Gael Fickou and winger Damian Penaud from the championship squad. However, he has assembled a strong lineup that showcases remarkable talent in the backline.
With Romain Ntamack currently out due to injury, Matthieu Jalibert will step into the pivotal fly-half role alongside Dupont. On the left wing, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, who impressed everyone last year by scoring eight tries and earning the title of player of the tournament, will make his mark.
As for the Irish side, Cian Prendergast and Jacob Stockdale are set to take the field, while Tadhg Furlong will be absent from this crucial opening match.
In the midfield, Yoram Moefana teams up with Nicolas Depoortere, and Theo Attissogbe will play on the right wing, supported by Thomas Ramos at full-back.
In another noteworthy decision, Galthie has chosen not to include former captain Gregory Alldritt in his squad. Veteran prop Uini Atonio was also forced to withdraw from the game due to health concerns related to a heart issue. Stepping into the number eight position is Anthony Jelonch, who will be flanked by Francois Cros and Oscar Jegou.
The front row will see Jean-Baptiste Gros and Dorian Aldegheri join hooker Julian Marchand, while locks Charles Ollivon and Mickael Guillard complete the pack.
The starting lineup for France is as follows: Thomas Ramos at full-back; Theo Attissogbe, Nicolas Depoortere, Yoram Moefana, and Louis Bielle-Biarrey in the backline; with Matthieu Jalibert and Antoine Dupont (captain) forming the half-back pairing. The forwards consist of Jean-Baptiste Gros, Julian Marchand, Dorian Aldegheri, Charles Ollivon, Mickael Guillard, Francois Cros, Oscar Jegou, and Anthony Jelonch.
On the bench, the team includes Peato Mauvaka, Rhys Neti, Romain Montagne, Henry Auradou, Eroni Meafou, Léo Nouchi, Baptiste Serin, and Kévin Gourgues. As the excitement builds for this match, fans can't help but wonder how France will perform under the leadership of their returning star. Will Dupont's presence significantly impact the game? Only time will tell!
