Alldritt Leads France Against Australia as Fickou Returns

Gregory Alldritt will continue as captain of the French rugby team for their upcoming match against Australia on October 28, 2023, in Paris. This decision comes despite the return of Gael Fickou, who previously led the team in their opening match of the Autumn Nations Series.

Fickou, aged 31, captained France during their disappointing 32-17 loss to South Africa at the start of the campaign. He was rested for last weekend’s match, where France secured a less-than-convincing 34-21 victory over Fiji. With regular captain Antoine Dupont sidelined until December due to a serious knee injury, Alldritt’s role as captain remains crucial as they prepare to face the struggling Wallabies.

In addition to Fickou’s return, head coach Fabien Galthie announced several changes to the lineup. Locks Thibaud Flament and Emmanuel Meafou have been included in the starting XV, while Romain Taofifenua has been moved to the bench. Charles Ollivon will shift to flanker, allowing Oscar Jegou to be named among the substitutes.

Fickou’s inclusion marks his 98th Test appearance, an impressive milestone for the seasoned player. His experience will be vital as France looks to strengthen their position in the series.

Among the substitutes, Kalvin Gourgues, a 20-year-old centre from Toulouse, is poised to make his Test debut following an outstanding start to the French Top 14 season. Gourgues’ addition reflects the depth of talent in the French squad and their commitment to developing new players.

The team set to face Australia is as follows:
1. Thomas Ramos
2. Damian Penaud
3. Nicolas Depoortere
4. Gael Fickou
5. Louis Bielle-Biarrey
6. Romain Ntamack
7. Maxime Lucu
8. Jean-Baptiste Gros
9. Julien Marchand
10. Regis Montagne
11. Thibaud Flament
12. Emmanuel Meafou
13. Anthony Jelonch
14. Charles Ollivon
15. Gregory Alldritt (captain)

Substitutes:
16. Maxime Lamothe
17. Rodrigue Neti
18. Thomas Laclayat
19. Romain Taofifenua
20. Hugo Auradou
21. Oscar Jegou
22. Baptiste Jauneau
23. Kalvin Gourgues

As the match approaches, anticipation builds around how Alldritt will lead the team against a Wallabies side in search of redemption. With significant changes in the lineup and the return of key players, the outcome remains uncertain, making this clash a pivotal moment in the Autumn Nations Series.