During the final phase of the Champions Cup, Ugo Mola, the manager of Stade Toulousain, had lined up almost the same starting fifteen at each stage towards the European title (22-31, ap against Leinster). Thomas Ramos, who was injured at the end of March against UBB, paid the price. Blair Kinghorn had worn the number 15. The usual full-back and goalscorer had made do with a place on the substitutes’ bench following his return from injury starting in the quarter-finals of the European competition. For the final phase of the Top 14, where Stade Toulousain qualified directly for the semi-finals, the situation should change. Thomas Ramos should regain a starting place at the back, and therefore his role as number 1 scorer.
Lebel sacrificed?
This return of Thomas Ramos in 15 should have Matthis Lebel as its victim. Yet author of a full season (15 tries), including the only one in the Champions Cup final, the winger will have to give up his place. Both wings should be occupied by Juan-Cruz Mallia and Blair Kinghorn. Another player from the back lines, starting in the final against Leinster, may not be renewed. This is the young Paul Costes, a real revelation of the season. The Pita Akhi-Santiago Chocobares pair, that of the French champion title last year (29-26 against Stade Rochelais), seems favorites. Choices undoubtedly dictated by the profile of the opponent.
Julien Marchand also leaving?
Two other changes could occur, this time among the forwards. Emmanuel Meafou (hamstring) was already absent due to injury, Richie Arnold will replace him in the second row. Finally, Julien Marchand could start at hooker in place of Peato Mauvaka. Once again, this choice of power to the detriment of mobility could be linked to the fact that the Toulouse residents find Stade Rochelais on their way.
Stade Rochelais changes nothing, Haddad on the bench
As for Stade Rochelais, no surprises. The victory on Toulon’s lawn in the play-off (29-34) undoubtedly reassured manager Ronan O’Gara that he had his team ready for the final phase. He should therefore renew his entire starting fifteen with Tolu Latu as hooker, the Picquette-Skelton pair in the second line, the revelation Oscar Jegou in the third line or the Favre-Seuteni pair in the center.
Consequently, hooker Quentin Lespiaucq, pillar Georges-Henri Colombe, third row Yoan Tanga and especially center Jonathan Danty should again be replacements. Only Matthias Haddad, recovered from his concussion, could join the sidelines in place of Thomas Ployet. Pierre Bourgarit still feels discomfort in one shoulder and will wait a little longer before resuming competition. Paul Boudehent (hamstrings), Ultane Dillane (knee) and Raymand Rhule (knee) will not play again this season.
