French Rugby Team Faces Criticism Over Inexperienced Squad for All Blacks Test
The French rugby team's inexperienced selection for the All Blacks encounter has drawn media criticism, yet players express eagerness to seize the opportunity.
Key Points
- • French rugby team challenges All Blacks with an inexperienced squad.
- • Coach Fabien Galthié cites player health as a key reason for selection.
- • The team includes many novices, with only Gaël Fickou as a seasoned player.
- • Players show enthusiasm to prove themselves despite historical challenges.
As the French rugby team prepares to face the All Blacks in a high-stakes test match, their decision to field a largely inexperienced squad has sparked significant criticism from New Zealand media. Coach Fabien Galthié has defended the selection, emphasizing that the decision to rest key players stems from concerns over their health and future performance. Galthié pointed out that while New Zealand players typically participate in about 20 matches a season, French internationals often exceed 35, which raises red flags regarding player fatigue. "If it’s for the players to be degraded physically, we put ourselves in danger until the 2027 World Cup, that makes no sense," he stated.
Only Gaël Fickou remains from the experienced contingent, leaving a squad that includes five players without any international caps. Historically, France has struggled in New Zealand, claiming victory in only four matches since 1906, with their last win dating back to 2009. However, the squad members, including novices like Gaëtan Barlot and Pierre Bourgarit, are exuding confidence and a strong desire to prove their capabilities against a formidable opponent. Both players conveyed a sense of excitement about tackling the challenge ahead, viewing their underdog status as a potential advantage.
Despite the odds stacked against them, the team remains motivated to honor the French jersey and attempt to make a statement in this crucial match against the All Blacks.