Antoine Dupont starts with France against South Africa – Libération

2023 Rugby World Cup in FrancefileAfter three weeks of suspense, Fabien Galthié’s staff has decided: the leader of the Blues will be at the start of the quarter-final against the Springboks, Sunday October 15.

Never has fracture been so scrutinized. Antoine Dupont’s cheekbone, violently shaken by a Namibian on a gala evening for the XV of France, will finally fade. After three weeks consisting of a fourth-speed operation, general mobilization and questions surrounding the opportunity for the brilliant scrum half of the Blues to wear a helmet or not, the open secret is out. Yes, the captain of the French rugby team will lead the charge against South Africa for their World Cup quarter-final, announced Fabien Galthié on Friday October 13.

In the announcement of the composition, already published by specialized sites, the confirmation of an innovation. Rather accustomed to presenting a bench with five forwards and three backs, France will arm itself with six forwards and two backs as “finishers”. A choice usually observed among the Springboks who, on the contrary, decided to abandon their frightening “bomb squad”, made up of six forwards and two backs. This time, it will be a five-three bench for the reigning world champions.

The composition of the XV of France: Ramos – Penaud, Fickou, Danty, Bielle-Biarrey – Jalibert, Dupont (cap) – Ollivon, Alldritt, Jelonch – Flament, Woki – Atonio, Mauvaka, Baille.