French Rugby Team's Preparation Intensifies Ahead of New Zealand Tour
France's rugby team sees new talent as they prepare for New Zealand tour in July.
Key Points
- • Five players from Aviron Bayonnais called for the New Zealand tour
- • Newcomers include Joris Segonds and Tom Spring
- • Four players from Toulon also selected for the squad
- • Official announcement of the full squad expected after Tuesday's training
Fabien Galthié, head coach of the French national rugby team, has announced the selection of several new players as part of the squad's preparations for the upcoming test matches against New Zealand scheduled for July 2025. Among the notable call-ups are five players from Aviron Bayonnais, following their recent elimination from the Top 14 semi-finals by Stade Toulousain. The selected Bayonnais players include Joris Segonds (fly-half), Tom Spring (wing), Esteban Capilla (back row), Cheikh Tiberghien (fullback, currently injured), and Arnaud Erbinartegaray (utility back). In addition to these newcomers, four players from Toulon have also made the cut: Gabin Villière (wing), Esteban Abadie (back row), Matthias Halagahu (lock), and Marius Domont (fullback).
The team's preparation for the formidable All Blacks emphasizes Galthié's focus on integrating fresh talent into the squad. "This selection reflects our strategy to fortify the team ahead of significant challenges," Galthié stated. The full 37-player squad will be officially announced following a training session scheduled for Tuesday, providing further insights into Galthié’s strategic choices and player selections, as the French Rugby Federation continues to refine its roster. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see how these selections will impact the team's performance against such a competitive opponent as New Zealand.