Fabien Galthié has confirmed that Antoine Dupont and Romain Ntamack will start together at half-back for France against Fiji on Saturday.
Antoine Dupont and Romain Ntamack are finally set to share the pitch again in a France jersey. The duo, long considered one of the most promising half-back pairings in world rugby, has not started together for the national team since earlier this year. That wait will end on Saturday, when Fabien Galthié's side takes on Fiji in the Nations Championship.
The French coach made the announcement during a press conference, confirming that both players will be in the starting XV for the match. The reunion of Dupont at scrum-half and Ntamack at fly-half brings back memories of their successful partnership during France's recent title-winning campaigns. Their complementary styles — Dupont's explosive breaks and Ntamack's tactical kicking — have often given the Blues a creative edge in attack.
This selection comes at a crucial time for the team, as the Nations Championship enters its final phase. France needs a solid performance against Fiji to keep their hopes alive in the competition. The Fijians, known for their physicality and flair, will pose a serious challenge, but the return of this experienced pairing is expected to bring stability and leadership to the French backline.
Galthié has rotated his squad throughout the tournament, giving opportunities to younger players. However, the decision to bring back Dupont and Ntamack together signals a clear intent to field a strong team for this important fixture. Observers will be watching closely to see if the duo can quickly rediscover their usual understanding after several months apart.
The match is scheduled for Saturday, 7 November, at a venue yet to be confirmed by the organisers. Fans of the French XV will be hoping that this reunion marks the start of a new chapter for a partnership that once promised so much.
The French coach made the announcement during a press conference, confirming that both players will be in the starting XV for the match. The reunion of Dupont at scrum-half and Ntamack at fly-half brings back memories of their successful partnership during France's recent title-winning campaigns. Their complementary styles — Dupont's explosive breaks and Ntamack's tactical kicking — have often given the Blues a creative edge in attack.
This selection comes at a crucial time for the team, as the Nations Championship enters its final phase. France needs a solid performance against Fiji to keep their hopes alive in the competition. The Fijians, known for their physicality and flair, will pose a serious challenge, but the return of this experienced pairing is expected to bring stability and leadership to the French backline.
Galthié has rotated his squad throughout the tournament, giving opportunities to younger players. However, the decision to bring back Dupont and Ntamack together signals a clear intent to field a strong team for this important fixture. Observers will be watching closely to see if the duo can quickly rediscover their usual understanding after several months apart.
The match is scheduled for Saturday, 7 November, at a venue yet to be confirmed by the organisers. Fans of the French XV will be hoping that this reunion marks the start of a new chapter for a partnership that once promised so much.
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Source: Ouest-France