If the list of 34 announced on Wednesday provided its share of surprises, the composition of France’s fifteen to face Ireland (February 2, 9 p.m.) should include much fewer.
On the front line, Peato Mauvaka should continue as a starter at hooker while Julien Marchand returns from a long absence. At the position of left pillar, Reda Wardi could tickle Cyril Baille, the usual holder. In the second row, Emmanuel Meafou should make his big debut in blue, associated with Cameron Woki, while awaiting the return of his friend to Toulouse, Thibaud Flament, who could be on his feet from the trip to Scotland (February 10). A question hovers in the third line. Can Paul Boudehent shake up the hierarchy? In this case, who is most in danger? Charles Ollivon, who is no longer captain, or Anthony Jelonch?
At the hinge, in the absence of Antoine Dupont (France 7) and Romain Ntamack (knee), the Bordeaux pair Maxime Lucu – Matthieu Jalibert will officiate.
Finally, the back triangle will be made up of Thomas Ramos, Damian Penaud and Louis Bielle-Biarrey. The question is whether Yoram Moefana or Émilien Gailleton or the neophyte Nicolas Depoortere can shake up the Jonathan Danty – Gaël Fickou association in the center…
The probable fifteen against Ireland: Ramos – Penaud, Fickou, Danty (or Moefana), Bielle-Biarrey – Jalibert, Lucu – Ollivon (or Boudehent) – Alldritt (cap.) – Jelonch (or Boudehent) – Meafou, Woki – Atonio, Mauvaka, Baille (or Wardi).
