Should we see a sign there? As three years ago for the historic victory of the Blues at the Stade de France (40-25), the All Blacks will face the XV of France in white on Saturday evening (9:10 p.m.) in Saint-Denis. A choice made to avoid confusion with the navy blue jersey of Antoine Dupont and his partners. If tradition dictates that the selection playing at home changes tunics if they are too similar, New Zealand has agreed to wear their second jersey for this clash of the autumn tour.
A year ago, it was France who played the opening match, won (27-13), of the World Cup against the All Blacks in white. But it wasn’t really a choice because a draw had chosen the formation which should change color for the occasion.
The same equipment manufacturer as New Zealand
Fabien Galthié’s men will therefore have a new opportunity to wear, after the victory (52-12) a week ago against Japan, this blue jersey made by Adidas. Their new equipment supplier, which is also that of the New Zealanders.
France is aiming to make it three against New Zealand, a performance achieved only once in the history of the French selection, between 1994 and 1995. The All Blacks, undefeated in November with two successes in England (22-24) and Ireland (13-23) are for their part determined to take their revenge.
The French XV will have to do without the second best scorer in its history Damian Penaud, ill, and without its third row, François Cros, victim of a concussion against the Japanese. The New Zealanders arrive in Saint-Denis without their ex-captain, Sam Cane, and their winger, Mark Tele’a.
