France Make Second Row Changes for Six Nations Grand Slam Pursuit Against Italy
France have opted to freshen up their second row partnership as they continue their quest for a Six Nations grand slam, with a crucial match against Italy scheduled for Lille this weekend.
New Lock Duo Takes Centre Stage
Toulouse teammates Thibaud Flament and Emmanuel Meafou will start together in the second row, having both featured as substitutes in last week's victory over Wales. This change comes in an otherwise unchanged starting lineup announced by head coach Fabien Galthie.
Flament had missed France's opening win over Ireland due to personal reasons, with his wife undergoing fertility treatment. His return sees him partner with club colleague Meafou, displacing Charles Ollivon and Mickael Guillard despite their impressive performances in the first two rounds of the tournament.
Bench Strength and Team Continuity
The French selection features a six-forward bench unit designed to make a significant impact in the latter stages of the match. Fabien Brau-Boirie, who made his debut last week, retains his place in the centres, adding to the team's attacking options.
France have established themselves as tournament favourites with their impressive early performances, but they remain wary of an Italian side that has already defeated Scotland and pushed Ireland close in their opening matches.
Historical Context and Italian Threat
Italy will be looking to build on their strong start to the championship. On their last visit to the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille, the Azzurri came agonisingly close to victory, with fly half Paolo Garbisi missing a penalty that would have won the match, which ultimately ended in a 13-all draw.
The French team named for Sunday's clash reflects both continuity and strategic adjustments as they aim to maintain their perfect record in the tournament.
France Team Lineup for Italy Clash
Starting XV:
- Jean-Baptiste Gros
- Julien Marchand
- Dorian Aldegheri
- Thibaud Flament
- Emmanuel Meafou
- Francois Cros
- Oscar Jegou
- Anthony Jelonch
- Antoine Dupont (captain)
- Matthieu Jalibert
- Louis Bielle-Biarrey
- Fabien Brau-Boirie
- Emilien Gailleton
- Theo Attissogbe
- Thomas Ramos
Replacements:
- Peato Mauvaka
- Rodrigue Neti
- Georges-Henri Colombe
- Charles Ollivon
- Mickael Guillard
- Lenni Nouchi
- Baptiste Serin
- Pierre-Louis Barassi
The match kicks off at 3.10pm GMT on Sunday 22 February at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in Lille, with France looking to take another step toward Six Nations glory.
