France have named a stacked side to take on Namibia, in their third pool stage match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Fabien Galthie’s superstars return to the starting line-up, after sitting out in the underwhelming performance against Uruguay.
Galthie has made 12 changes from the side that beat the South Americans, with inside centre Jonathan Danty set for his comeback after a hamstring injury. Prop Cyril Baille also makes his return, after recovering from a prolonged calf injury. Just Cameron Woki, Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Anthony Jelonch retain their places from the team that defeated Uruguay last Thursday.
10 players who started in the Rugby World Cup opener against the All Blacks return to the starting XV, including the entire back-line. Galthie is pulling no punches against Namibia, who’s Rugby World Campaign has so far consisted of a 52-8 loss to Italy and a 71-3 defeat to New Zealand.
Notable stats to consider is that Antoine Dupont has not lost in his 13 matches as France captain on home soil, and this side looks set to continue that trend. Fullback Thomas Ramos is averaging 17 points per game in 2023, and could well contribute to an all-time record Rugby World Cup win this weekend.
The record Rugby World Cup win was Australia 142-0 Namibia, back in the 2003 Rugby World Cup. France have fielded a side that looks capable of breaking this record, in what would be an unforgettable victory.
FRANCE TEAM TO PLAY NAMIBIA – RUGBY WORLD CUP POOL A
15. Thomas Ramos
14. Damien Penaud
13. Gael Fickou
12. Jonathan Danty
11. Louis Bielle-Biarrey
10. Matthieu Jalibert
9. Antoine Dupont (Captain)
1. Cyril Baille
2. Peato Mauvaka
3. Uini Antonio
4. Cameron Woki
5. Thibaud Flament
6. Francois Cros
7. Charles Ollivon
8. Anthony Jelonch
REPLACEMENTS
16. Pierre Bourgarit
17. Reda Wardi
18. Dorian Aldegheri
19. Romain Taofifenua
20. Paul Boudenhent
21. Baptisite Couilloud
22. Yoram Moefana
23. Melvyn Jaminet