Galthie restructures French squad with nine alterations for final New Zealand test
In a bid to turn the tables against the formidable All Blacks, France coach Fabien Galthie has shaken up his starting lineup for the series finale in Hamilton. The team, which suffered a 43-17 loss in the second test, will see nine changes from the previous match.
At the heart of the changes is the selection of Nolann Le Garrec, who will start as scrumhalf for his third consecutive match. Le Garrec, who has been a consistent performer, will be supported by Antoine Hastoy, who takes over the flyhalf position in the series finale.
In the backs, Theo Attissogbe will start as winger, replacing Leo Barre. Gabriel Fickou, the most-capped player in the squad with 95 caps, returns to the team at centre and will captain the side. He will be partnered by Nicolas Depoortere.
Upfront, Rabah Slimani, who missed the second test, returns to the team as prop. Gaetan Barlot, who played in the second test, retains his place in the front row.
The French squad for the series finale does not include any uncapped players. The replacements for the match are Matthias Halagahu, who will provide cover at lock, and Emilien Gailleton, who will offer options at hooker.
Theo Attissogbe, Pierre Bochaton, Gabin Villiere, Paul Mallez, Romain Taofifenua, Mickael Guillard, Demba Bamba, Joshua Brennan, and Baptiste Erdocio complete the French squad for the series finale against the All Blacks.
The All Blacks, on the other hand, have made several changes to their starting lineup, with key returns, debutants, and a revamped squad composition. However, the details of these changes are beyond the scope of this article and will be covered in a separate report.
France's revamped squad for the series finale against the All Blacks includes Theo Attissogbe, who moves to the wing, and Nolann Le Garrec, the scrumhalf, both making their third consecutive start. Meanwhile, Antoine Hastoy takes over the flyhalf position.
